The Malta Maritime Pilots will be investing €3 million in a new maritime training facility in Hal Far.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg made the announcement on Wednesday morning at a maritime conference.

The new centre, branded as MaritimeMT, seeks to offer a “holistic approach that targets all the maritime sector and will include both seafarers and shore-based personnel.”

Borg said that the strong growth in this industry could not take place without modernization and a growing work force.

The new facility will be replacing the old one, which can no longer cater for the growing demand which is increasingly diversified.

The new facility will have new courses creating opportunities for individuals seeking a maritime career, Borg said.

Accredited courses will be provided, including those relevant for cruise ships, superyachts, merchant shipping as well as the shore-based side of the industry. The courses meet the competency standards of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

Ship-handling training on MaritimeMT’s state-of-the-art DNV-certified Full Mission Bridge Simulators complete with ARPA and ECDIS systems will also be provided.

Chief Pilot Captain Jesmond Mifsud said that “the maritime sector is vital for the Maltese economy and its contribution to GDP will soon reach 14 per cent. The maritime sector means investment employment opportunities. MaritimeMT will provide the necessary training for existing mariners and individuals aspiring to work in the maritime sector. The Maltese Maritime Pilots’ philosophy has always worked hand in hand with all those involved in the sector, with the aim of developing excellence.”

Construction work on the new training facility in Hal Far has already started and the new facilities are planned to be ready by the beginning of 2019.