Kongsberg Digital Partners with Transnet for Advanced Simulator Technology in South Africa

Kongsberg Digital has secured a contract with Transnet SOC Ltd to provide advanced simulators to the Transnet Academy in Durban, South Africa. This agreement, set for delivery in June 2025, aims to significantly improve training capabilities, thereby supporting economic growth and sustainability in the maritime industry. The simulator suite will include specialized equipment to ensure comprehensive training for port personnel.

Kongsberg Digital has reached a significant agreement with Transnet SOC Ltd to furnish advanced simulator technology to the Transnet Academy located in Durban, South Africa. This development is crucial for enhancing personnel training within Transnet, which is a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic infrastructure, particularly in port operations. Scheduled for delivery in June 2025, the innovative suite of simulators will greatly bolster training capabilities, thus improving trade facilitation, sustainability, and economic growth in the region.

The collaboration aims to cultivate a skilled workforce adept at managing complex maritime scenarios. The simulator suite will encompass five Ship’s Bridge Simulators, including specialized simulators for tug bridge operations, VTS, and GMDSS, fully replicating the immersive elements necessary for effective port training. In addition, customized training will be enhanced through new geographical models of local sailing areas, tailored to meet specific operational needs.

Itumeleng Matsheka, Group Chief of People Management & Learning at Transnet, emphasized the importance of well-trained personnel for the efficiency of both the company and the wider economy. He remarked that the introduction of KONGSBERG simulators will equip South African personnel with the necessary skills for leadership in the maritime industry. Are Fllesdal Tjønn, Managing Director of Maritime Simulation at Kongsberg Digital, affirmed the partnership’s significance in advancing safety and sustainability in maritime operations, expressing excitement about contributing to the global competitiveness of South African ports.

The announced simulator package includes five full-mission K-Sim Navigation simulators, one set up as a tug bridge, alongside a K-Sim VTS simulator aimed at vessel traffic management. Furthermore, it will feature a classroom setup for K-Sim GMDSS maritime communication training, a K-Sim Engine Simulator for engineering education, and databases reflecting South Africa’s coastal and harbor environments to ensure realistic training scenarios.

Kongsberg Digital’s latest contract with Transnet highlights the essential role of innovative training methodologies within the maritime industry. As Transnet strives to enhance its operational capabilities and human resources, advanced simulator technology becomes a pivotal tool for developing personnel. Given South Africa’s reliance on its ports for economic stability and growth, the partnership underscores the necessity for state-of-the-art training solutions to ensure competencies align with contemporary maritime challenges.

The partnership between Kongsberg Digital and Transnet marks a transformative step in maritime training within South Africa. By incorporating advanced simulator technology, they are setting a precedent for enhanced skills development, which is vital for both the organization and the broader economy. This collaboration not only targets improved operational outcomes for Transnet but also aims to bolster the maritime industry’s contribution to economic growth in the region.

Original Source: maritime-executive.com