July 10, 2002
FESCo
Backs a Skilled Maritime Industry
In recognition
of a shortage of skilled people entering the maritime and logistics
industry, FESCo Lines New Zealand today announced an annual sponsorship
of a New Zealand Maritime School student to assist with fees and
work experience.
As part of
the sponsorship an annual cash payment of $2500 has been made
available to a student from the Maritime School's Diploma in Shipping
and Freight programme and has this year been awarded to18 year-old
Warrick Smith of Pukekohe.
Regional Manager
of FESCo, Craig Landon, says the shipping line was aware of the
need to support the activities of the New Zealand Maritime School
in attracting young people to enter an industry of such vital
importance to the New Zealand economy.
"The shortage
of qualified people entering the transportation industry is of
very real concern and as an industry we need to act to attract
talented young people into the field."
"The industry
offers dynamic career opportunities with the vast percentage of
students at the Maritime School being snapped up into good jobs
immediately on graduation."
Director of
the New Zealand Maritime School Tim Wilson, says while increasing
numbers of young people were becoming aware of the variety of
job opportunities available in the industry, good people were
still in short supply.
The Maritime
School currently offers over 300 different courses with over 2400
New Zealand students and large numbers of overseas students enrolled
at the school.
To qualify
for the FESCo scholarship students in the Diploma in Shipping
and Freight programme had to show current academic achievement
as well as provide a 500 word essay on future career plans and
goals.
Winner of
the FESCo scholarship for 2002, New Zealand Maritime School student
Warwick Smith receives a commemorative telescope from FESCo Regional
Manager, Craig Landon (right). With them is Peter Drew, New Zealand
Maritime School lecturer.
For further
information: Tim Wilson New Zealand Maritime School Telephone:
09 379 4997
