Namibia sends engineering graduates to Malaysia for specialized subsea training

WINDHOEK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) has dispatched three Namibian engineering graduates to Malaysia for a specialized Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) Pilot Technician training program, the government-established fund announced Thursday.

The initiative is a collaboration between PETROFUND, the Namibia University of Science and Technology, and international oil and gas service provider Subsea7, said Shoki Kandjimi, PETROFUND spokesperson, in a statement.

Upon completion of the training, Subsea7 will provide the graduates with on-the-job training and, following successful performance, integrate them into its global offshore ROV workforce, Kandjimi said. The trainees will also be enrolled in Subsea7's competence and assurance program to support their continued professional development.

Kandjimi emphasized the critical role of ROV pilot technicians in operating, maintaining, and repairing remotely controlled vehicles in underwater environments that are too deep or hazardous for human divers.

"This is particularly relevant given that Namibian offshore waters are classified as ultra-deep," he said, adding that the training program reflects Namibia's preparedness to support and participate in offshore oil production as the country moves closer to its first final investment decision by oil and gas operators. ■