Madagascar School Earned Maritime Rescue Accreditation
The National Maritime Education School secured international status after completing a rigorous regional training program.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Emergency Response
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The Maritime Search and Rescue Council has officially awarded Approved Training Centre status to the National Maritime Education School in Mahajanga, Madagascar. The accreditation follows a specialized training initiative that equipped maritime professionals with standardized rescue skills.
Why it matters
This certification provides independent external recognition that the facility meets rigorous professional standards for maritime operations. It aims to strengthen regional cooperation and operational capability across the Indian Ocean and Africa.
The training program involved 25 maritime professionals representing eight nations. It included classroom theory, tabletop scenarios, and practical sea exercises.
The players
Maritime Search and Rescue Council
This body conducts independent quality-assurance reviews to ensure that training facilities and instruction meet international maritime professional standards.
National Maritime Education School
Located in Mahajanga, Madagascar, this institution serves as a hub for regional maritime training and professional development.
National Sea Rescue Institute of South Africa
This organization provided the expert instructors for the in-person training curriculum delivered in Madagascar.
Indian Ocean Commission
This intergovernmental organization fosters cooperation among island nations and now serves as an organizational member of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council.
Richie Heard
He performed the formal, independent quality-assurance assessment for the council to verify that the school met the necessary benchmarks for accreditation.
The details
The National Sea Rescue Institute of South Africa delivered the instruction, while the Indian Ocean Regional Maritime Security and Safety Institute organized the event. The program utilized specialized equipment provided by local agencies, including the Centre de Surveillance des Pêches and the Agence Portuaire Maritime et Fluviale, to test capabilities.
Timeline
The accreditation was announced following program activities completed on October 5, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
The reliance on standardized digital learning resources follows the integration of the International Maritime Rescue Federation e-learning modules into the curriculum. This accreditation program follows the implementation of these digital tools to create a blended learning environment for regional participants.
Professional maritime personnel in the region may now access certified training modules offered at the Madagascar facility. These upgraded standards provide a more reliable framework for regional search and rescue cooperation.
The takeaway
The standardization of training across eight nations represents a significant step in professionalizing regional maritime security. By aligning local education with global benchmarks, the program ensures a more cohesive response to emergencies on the water.
Further reading
Learn more about global maritime standards in the Emergency Response section.
More information
Review the full Approved Training Centre framework information on the council website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hellenic Shipping News.
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