By: Captain Talib Mohammed
The Technical University of Mombasa, Institute of Maritime and Seafaring Studies (TUM IMSS) has officially launched the Seafarers Training Portal, a comprehensive digital platform designed to transform access to maritime education and training services. The portal is hosted by the IMSS Seafarers Simulation and Maritime Training (Sea SMarT) Centre.
The portal enables seafarers, maritime professionals, and industry stakeholders to conveniently access training courses, register online, make secure electronic payments, and track their training progress through a centralized digital system. The new platform is part of TUM IMSS's ongoing commitment to modernizing Maritime education and training in addition to strengthening compliance with international standards.
A key feature of the Seafarers Training Portal is its employer verification functionality, which allows shipping companies, crewing agencies, regulators, and other authorized stakeholders to verify the authenticity of training certificates issued through the institution. This measure enhances transparency and confidence in the certification process while supporting industry efforts to maintain a competent and qualified maritime workforce.
The portal has been developed in alignment with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and incorporates best practices for digital training management and record keeping.
In addition, the platform supports the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) resolutions aimed at combating fraudulent certification and strengthening the integrity of maritime qualifications worldwide. Through digital verification and secure record management, the system contributes to global efforts to prevent the misuse of certificates and protect the credibility of maritime training institutions.
Speaking on the launch, TUM IMSS, the TUM Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, Prof Peter Gichangi noted that the portal represents a significant step toward improving service delivery, expanding access to maritime training, and supporting the digital transformation of maritime education in Kenya and the wider region.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof Laila Abubakar reaffirmed that “TUM IMSS is committed to producing competent, globally competitive maritime professionals through quality training, innovation, and adherence to international standards. The Seafarers Training Portal demonstrates our commitment to enhancing learner experience, strengthening stakeholder confidence, and supporting the maritime industry's demand for verifiable and credible training records. Through this initiative, we are contributing to safer shipping and a more trusted certification framework across the region and beyond.”
The Director of the Institute, and Captain in Charge, Talib Mohammed further expressed that “The Seafarers Training Portal is expected to enhance efficiency for trainees, employers, regulators, and maritime institutions while reinforcing TUM IMSS's position as a leading provider of quality maritime education and professional training.”
The portal can be access through https://seasmart.tum.ac.ke. The Mobile app is also available for download through the website and Google Play Store.
