UHI Shetland has announced that it has been granted £138,411 by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) to enhance its maritime bridge simulator at the Scalloway campus. This funding will support the upgrade of the simulator, a vital tool for providing onboard training to both modern apprentices and experienced seafarers.
The upgraded simulator will cater to the evolving needs of the maritime industry, addressing training standards such as STCW (F), the workboat code, new routes to limited officer certificates of competency, the move away towards paperless bridges and specific requirements of the local industry. By offering tailored training in these areas, UHI Shetland aims to bridge the skill gap and reinforce the capabilities of seafarers, ensuring they are equipped to meet the demands of the sector.
‘The funding from Defra marks a significant milestone for UHI Shetland and underscores our commitment to providing high-quality training for seafarers and aquaculture professionals,’ said deputy principal Laura Burden.
‘This upgrade will not only enhance the skills and knowledge of our students and industry professionals but also contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of the seafood sector in the Shetland Islands.’
This project will play a pivotal role in facilitating training for entrants and experienced seafarers and staff within the aquaculture industry within a safe and controlled environment. By reducing the need for initial training in challenging and less accessible locations, such as fishing vessels or fish farms, UHI Shetland aims to significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of maritime training. This also initiative aligns with the broader goal of improving the sustainability of key maritime industries by increasing access to specialised training opportunities.
