_ABOUT 35 young Nigerians have been admitted as pioneer students of the Science and Technical College set up by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

The College was up to train Nigerian cadets who are interested in pursuing careers in the seafaring profession.

Disclosing this to Vanguard in Okoloba, Principal of the College, Mr. Nenepamo Williams said that the school actually took off on the 6^thof 2014 with about 35 students just as plans for a supplementary admission into the institution has been concluded.

Williams who spoke to Vanguard during an inspection of the College by  members of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, also said that construction on the permanent site of the College has commenced.

He explained that the school is the first of its kind in Nigeria adding that with time the College will become a world class institution with facilities to train seafarers.

He said “The school officially commenced operation on the 6^thof January 2014 and since then , we have ran the school for over six weeks and students have commenced the mid-term.

“At the commencement, we had 35 students .

“First of all we deal with the general area of education which is followed by the technical aspect of education and lastly, we also teach maritime related courses”.

He further explained that with time, the school will get affiliated to other world class maritime institutions so as to ensure that graduates get international certification.

“We intend to have affiliation with foreign institutions with a view to boosting our curriculum for students.

“Right now, we are working with Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), I personally went to NABTEB to register our courses.

“At the completion of their programme, students will be awarded NABTEB certificates .

“What we are focusing on is how can give young BNigerian basic technical training in technical education in preparation to further their studies in other conventional institutions or the maritime university that NIMASA is currently constructing.

“In addition to this, the foundation we give to the student in this school, will also enhance the study in the engineering field particularly marine engineering” he added.

On the relationship with the community the school Principal said “the warm reception accorded the Senators is an indication of the cordial relationship between the school and the community”.

Williams also disclosed that the school is a non-fee paying school until NIMASA decides otherwise”.