The Transport General Authority (TGA) conducted the inaugural maritime competency test for the rank of Marine Chief Engineer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Abdulrahim Ali Al-Thaqafi, the applicant, fulfilled all the qualifying requirements at the Maritime Training Academy of Saudi Aramco, which is the first accredited academy by the authority to offer the marine chief engineer course in the Kingdom. This achievement followed his completion of over 36 months of maritime service, a refresher course through accredited institutes, medical fitness, successful completion of mandatory maritime courses, and passing the oral competency exam.
The purpose of this test is to ensure that applicants meet the requirements of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch keeping for Seafarers (STCW) 1978, as amended. It also aims to familiarize applicants with the necessary managerial tasks for the Chief Engineer position, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to localize the maritime sector with qualified Saudi professionals.
The rank of Marine Chief Engineer grants the authority to supervise ship maintenance, operation, engineering support, and maritime environmental protection tasks on various merchant vessels. This responsibility is in accordance with engine operating capacities and requirements dictated by the nature of the ship’s work, all while coordinating with the ship’s captain to ensure safe navigation and operation. This professional certification is internationally recognized due to its alignment with the STCW requirements.
Marine Chief Eng. Abdullah bin Misfer Al-Yami, a distinguished talent within the Saudi maritime fleet, administered the test. Upon fulfilling the convention’s requirements, Abdulrahim Ali Al-Thaqafi was awarded the rank of Marine Chief Engineer.
It is worth noting that the Transport General Authority previously conducted the first oral maritime competency test for the rank of Master Mariner. This test was taken by First Officer Gharman bin Mohammed Al-Shehri from Aramco and marked the first of its kind in the Kingdom.
Source: Saudi Press Agency