Marlins approved test centres open in Panama and Ethiopia

Marlins, V.Group’s training business, has approved two new test centres in Panama and Ethiopia. The test centre in Panama is the first Marlins approved test centre in Central America.

The centres – E4Seafarers in Panama and Andromeda Marine Surveying and Consultancy PLC in Ethiopia will offer both Marlins UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA) approved STCW testing and certification as well as English language testing. .

Darren Cassidy, sales and marketing manager, Marlins said: “The provision of Marlins UK MCA approved assessment and certification continues to expand, with 200 Marlins approved test centres in 42 countries, we are reaching more seafaring communities than ever before.”

This was an important achievement explains Captain Francisco Tajú Guardia, general manager, E4Seafarers: “Seafarers from Central America can now demonstrate to ship operators and maritime administrators that they have been assessed on their ability to communicate in English – a requirement that has been given additional emphasis with the implementation of the STCW Manila amendments.”

Bisrat Hailu, general manager, Andromeda Marine Survey and Consultancy plc adds: “Our aim is to support Ethiopia’s efforts to become a force in the shipping industry by providing high-end training and consultancy services to existing as well as prospective seafarers in the country. We identified that the Marlins English language testing was a critical element in achieving this aim and believe that as a result of the assessment, it will improve their chances of getting jobs in the international shipping sector.”

Marlins offer three English language tests to meet industry needs:

• The ISF Marlins English Language Test for Seafarers – allows ship operators to demonstrate that seafarers, of any nationality, have been assessed on their ability to communicate in English meeting the ISM Code and the revised STCW Convention
• The Marlins English Language Test for Cruise Ship Staff – tailored to the leisure industry, it has a particularl emphasis on staff/guest relations and customer service within a multi-cultural environment
• The Marlins English Language Test for Offshore Workers – set within the context of the oil and gas industry, it focuses on the ability to understand English as opposed to testing specialised skills and is suitable for both offshore and onshore personnel, regardless of nationality or position.

For further information about Marlins and the wide range of training and assessment solutions offered, please visit our dedicated website: www.marlins.co.uk