The Anguilla Community College (ACC) has added Ship Security Officer and Company Security Officer (SSO/CSO) training to its repertoire of certifications for individuals in the marine sector in Anguilla. Twelve candidates are currently enrolled in a three-day course upon completion of which they are scheduled to take the International Maritime Organization (IMO) examination required for certification. The increase of persons with this certification will improve safety standards on vessels operating from the territory and enhance the reputation of Anguilla as a base for maritime activities.
The course is being facilitated by Mr. Colin Cleare, a certified and experienced Security Consultant in the private sector for more than 30 years, and a retired police officer having spent 16 years in the Royal Bahamas Police force, including heading the Maritime Section of the Drug Enforcement Unit there. Mr. Cleare has IMO authorization to run the programme and has been delivering this and other related training in the Bahamas and elsewhere in the region.
Participants in the current SSO/CSO course are drawn from among ferry and charter boat operators in Anguilla as well as primarily land-based security officers. From 2016 to date, through the College’s offering of the IMO’s Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW 95), over 127 mariners have been certified or re-certified. The ACC further plans to offer the Captain/Boat Master Licence before the start of the 2019/2020 tourism season.
According to ACC President, Dr Karl Dawson, this new offering aligns with the College’s efforts to meet the varied needs of industry, and individuals in Anguilla, as embodied in the institution’s current communication thrust, “ACC for Everybody.” He further indicated that he was particularly pleased that the ACC could work alongside the Anguilla Air and Sea Ports Authority (AASPA) in bringing this training to reality.
The Anguilla Community College offers a range of certification courses as well as longer term diplomas, certificates and associates degrees. It is currently accepting students for the Fall semester and has new offerings in creative media, business, and general studies. Further information on any of the ACC’s offerings can be obtained by calling 498-8395 / 497-2538, visiting the ACC website www.acc.edu.ai or enquiring at the College at George Hill.
– Press Release
