Kongsberg Digital has secured a contract with Transnet to deliver advanced simulator technology to Transnet Academy in Durban, South Africa. Scheduled for delivery in June 2025, the simulator suite emphasizes the training of personnel crucial for port operations, enhancing economic growth and trade facilitation in the region. This collaboration involves five full-mission simulators and a range of training tools tailored to the South African maritime environment.
Kongsberg Digital has entered into a significant partnership with Transnet SOC Ltd (Transnet) to provide advanced simulator technology for the Transnet Academy located in Durban, South Africa. This agreement aims to enhance Transnet’s capacity for training personnel crucial to the efficient management of port operations, which are vital for the growth of South Africa’s economy. The delivery of the simulator suite is scheduled for June 2025 and is designed to significantly improve training capabilities, ensuring personnel are well-prepared to meet the challenges of an evolving maritime industry.
The simulators that will be integrated into the training program include five sophisticated Ship’s Bridge Simulators, comprising a Tug Bridge Simulator, Engine Room, Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) simulator, and Global Distress Safety System (GMDSS) simulator. These tools will replicate realistic port environments, allowing trainees to gain valuable experience in handling complex maritime scenarios safely and efficiently. Additionally, new geographical sailing areas will be modeled to cater to specific training needs.
Itumeleng Matsheka, Group Chief of People Management & Learning at Transnet, emphasized the importance of skilled personnel for economic performance, stating that “Well-trained and competent port and terminal personnel are not just critical to the efficient economic performance of our company but also the commerce, industry, and economic development of our nation and the South African region.”
Kongsberg Digital expressed its commitment to Transnet’s success, with Are Fllesdal Tjønn, Managing Director for Maritime Simulation, highlighting that this partnership showcases the role of advanced technology in fostering a sustainable maritime industry. The collaboration aims to position South Africa as a competitive global player in maritime trade and operations.
The simulator package includes five Full-Mission K-Sim Navigation simulators, one configured as a tug bridge, a K-Sim VTS simulator for vessel management, K-Sim GMDSS simulators for maritime communication training, and advanced engineering training tools. These resources, tailored to South Africa’s unique coastal and harbor characteristics, are set to create a relevant and impactful training experience.
Kongsberg Digital specializes in advanced maritime simulation technologies that support the training of personnel in various maritime sectors. Transnet, as a pivotal entity in South Africa’s economic infrastructure, recognizes the need for robust training systems to enhance operational efficiency and workforce competency in its port operations. The collaboration between Kongsberg Digital and Transnet aims at not only training personnel but also addressing industry demands and promoting growth in the maritime domain in South Africa and beyond.
The partnership between Kongsberg Digital and Transnet marks a significant advancement in maritime training in South Africa, providing state-of-the-art simulators that will enhance the capabilities of Transnet’s personnel. With a focus on preparing skilled professionals equipped to manage modern maritime challenges, this initiative aligns with broader economic goals for trade and sustainability. As the agreement is set for implementation by June 2025, it underscores a commitment to building a future-ready maritime workforce crucial for the region’s economic progress.
Original Source: maritime-executive.com
