The centre is described as the first of its kind in Angola and the most modern maritime campus in Africa. It is intended to provide education, training and certification for up to 200 Angolan students a year in line with Sonangol/Stena’s future requirements.
The two companies already cooperate in the Stena Sonangol Suezmax Pool, which today numbers 23 tankers.
Training was a fundamental consideration in the Stena/Sonangol teaming from the outset, said Stena bulk ceo Erik Hånell at the opening ceremony - which was also attended by group owner and ceo Dan Sten Olsson. CFMA will therefore ensure “long-term success” of the partnership, he said, as well as contribute to the local economy and infrastructure.
Stena’s Glasgow-based shipmanager Northern Marine Management led the team responsible for the design, build and pre operational phase of the CFMA, while City of Glasgow College will be responsible for maritime academic standards and help CFMA develop Angolan STCW certification with a view to achieving IMO “white list” accreditation. The initial intake of students will spend their first year of training in Angola and the second in Glasgow, in order to ensure highest international standards.