THE Myanmar Overseas Seafarers Association (MOSA) plans to hold its fifth annual general meeting on December 16 from 9am to noon at Hotel Nikko in Yangon.

U Min Zaw, the joint secretary of MOSA, said the meeting will focus on the development of the association, problems faced by members, future plans and other issues.

“We will also work on finding ways to help Myanmar seamen find better jobs in international shipping lines based on discussions with maritime experts,” he said.

He said the association currently offers a wide range of classes to help boost the skills of seamen, including courses in maritime English, safety awareness, ship security awareness, HIV/AIDS education, pre-sea training and pre-sea deck rating.

“These training programs are meant to provide practical knowledge and experience for those who have some sea experience but have been unable to find jobs in their field. And we’ll offer more sea-related courses in the future,” he said.

MOSA, formed in May 2002, is the biggest association of maritime experts in Myanmar. Its stated aim is to represent Myanmar seamen and safeguard their rights, and to help secure jobs for them by dealing with international shipping agencies.