GP rating course, a six-month training programme builds students into energetic, competent and well qualified to deal with the task provided under the marine ships. It is a Pre-Sea training program approved by the DG Shipping, Ministry of Shipping, Govt. of India. The training course combines the theoretical and practical study of generalship knowledge & marine engineering knowledge, which helps students evolve into professional trainees. Under the program, students deal with several aspects of the seafaring profession, including appliances usage, physical drills, lifesaving fire fighting exercises, workshop training, rope and mast climbing, swimming, ship visits etc. The participants also learn about dealing with problems that arise during the operations of the marine devices.
Students aspiring to pursue a career in the maritime industry can apply for this 6-month training course. They are required to pass the 10th or 12th standard with science, mathematics and English as the compulsory subjects. This course is conducted twice a year, with batches commencing January and July each year. After successfully completing the course, students can join the merchant shipping in the Engine or Deck departments as Ordinary Seaman (OS) (trainee of GP rating). The working professional will be promoted to a higher rank when they complete the necessary qualifications and entrance exams.
Students can be Trainee OS (Ordinary Seaman), trainee fitter, Able-bodied man, trainee oiler, trainee engine room cadet (for Diploma holders), Bosun, and Deck Officer /captain.
The pre-sea training course is a 6-month programme that trains the students to deal with the task related to marine ships effectively. The course is a career-oriented job that entails several aspects of the seafaring profession, including appliances usage, physical drills, lifesaving fire fighting exercises, workshop training, rope and mast climbing, swimming, ship visits etc. During the course, the students stay in the colleges or universities they have to get admission. It lays a path to obtain a job in the exciting merchant maritime industry. As it is a training course, it provides students combined study of theoretical and practical aspects of generalship knowledge and marine engineering knowledge. The pre-sea training course syllabus is formulated in such a way to build a successful trainee to grab an opportunity in the Deck or Engineering Department. Some of the vital topics taught in the course frame are listed below:
(a) Students are taught an idea of the theory and practice of a ship’s compass & hints on steering.
(b) The participants are provided knowledge regarding tools, equipment & instruments commonly found on board ships during the training period.
(c) Under the course, they make aware of Handling of Ropes, Blocks, Tackles, and Rigging.
(d) Students are also given practical workshop training in Machine shop, Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, and Diesel Maintenance Shop & Hot work.
(e) A basic grounding in the ship’s routine, its operation, legislation and their related duties.
(f) The course syllabus builds a strong foundation in the principles of Accident Prevention, Pollution at Sea, Fire Fighting, Safety, and First Aid.
(g) Students are practically learning about handling a lifeboat and starting its diesel engine.
(h) Students also learn about basic engineering knowledge, maintenance and safe working practices in the training period.
Also, all Ratings must complete the following mandatory courses during the training period:
(a) Personal Survival Techniques, (PST)
(b) Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities. (PSSR)
(c) Oil Tanker Familiarisation (OTFC)
(d) Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting, (FPFF)
(e) Security Training for Seafarers with designated security duties
(f) Proficiency in Elementary First Aid, (EFA)
Physical training, parade and sports are part of the curriculum and are mandatory.
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