PNG Maritime College deserves govt recognition

EVEN with my college entry into PNG Maritime College in the mid-80s, I lack firm knowledge about the governance of this critical institution as to who is in control of the college, or who owns it.
Is it private sector or state-owned?
If it is not the state, then which private entity is responsible and accountable for its success or failure?
Is it the Ship Owners Association?
I believe that the government needs to assert itself more firmly and decisively and impose its expectations for the professional and personal development of seafarers.
It is long overdue for a top-of-the-ladder authority to be responsible and ensure its governance for the sustained growth and enhancement of an industry that is our country’s lifeblood.
The entire shipping industry has gotten by the wayside of successive government policing and funding for as long as I can remember.
Hence, PNGMC has increasingly relied on charity.
I dare say that the political brains, board chairmanship and membership for maritime authorities have been left to the shipping companies to direct, dictate and influence for far too long.
It would definitely constitute a conflict of interest!
Admittance by the current NMSA chairman of his lack of knowledge of the maritime industry is extremely embarrassing and disastrous for the industry that is supposed to regulate, monitor and control all owners and operators in conformance to all requirements.
The astronomical tuition and boarding fees for the college are justifiable.
The majority of the training infrastructure and equipment are donor-funded, so what happens to all revenue generated internally?
Whilst it is with regret that the boycott has and would inevitably result in the discontinuity of students learning, student termination, financial sponsorships and their overheads being affected, this is going to expose irregularities and only then, can doable corrections be made to the satisfaction of not just the disputing parties, but all PNGMC’s stakeholders.
I encourage our comrades on campus in leadership roles to ensure that the demands are realistic and achievable so that the dispute does not go beyond the necessary.
I intend to put my hand up for a membership role on the NMSA board, though I am aware that it would be like being washed up between the rocks.
After the new government is in place, I will commence consultations and lobbying.
I am a neutral party and have no affiliation or loyalty with any ship owner or operator.
It is my strong desire to represent those who are most vulnerable and ultimately exposed to the risks and contribute 24/7, night or day, to the rudders and propellers turning for our country much more than anyone else.

Gerard Kasnari
Port Moresby