The Seychelles Maritime Academy (SMA) recently welcomed a distinguished visit from Karmele San Miguel Rodríguez, Director of the CIFP Náutico Pesquera de Bermeo, marking an important step toward international cooperation in maritime education and training.
During the visit, both institutions engaged in productive discussions, exchanging insights on training methodologies, programme structures, and operational practices. The Director of SMA noted that the two institutions share many similarities in their approach to maritime education, particularly in their commitment to high-quality training and industry relevance. However, a key distinction highlighted was the more spacious infrastructure available at SMA, which supports a broad range of training activities.
The discussions also brought attention to specialized programmes offered by the Bermeo institution, including advanced training for Fishing Masters on purse seine vessels, as well as an integrated Navigation and Engineering course. These areas were of particular interest to SMA, as they align with its strategic vision to expand and enhance its programme offerings.
Reflecting on the visit, Ms. Rodríguez stated:
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the warm welcome and the attention you gave me during my visit to the SMA of Seychelles. It was a very enriching experience, and I truly value the time you dedicated to me, as well as the exchange of knowledge we were able to share.
As discussed during our meeting, I am pleased to attach the contents of the Fishing Master programme. I will also send you shortly the materials corresponding to the Coastal Skipper programme.
We remain at your disposal and look forward to staying in touch to continue working on potential areas of collaboration between our institutions.”
The meeting concluded with both Directors expressing strong interest in future collaboration, including potential programme development, staff exchanges, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. This visit reinforces SMA’s ongoing commitment to building international partnerships and advancing maritime education in Seychelles and beyond.