COURSE OVERVIEW:

Reporting Security Events to MDAT-GoG (Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade – Gulf of Guinea) is a specialized security program designed to enhance the safety of vessels transiting West African waters. This course examines the critical role of MDAT-GoG as a primary information hub between the shipping industry and regional naval forces. It provides a technical framework for understanding the reporting requirements and communication protocols necessary to mitigate the risks of piracy and armed robbery.

The scope of this training involves the detailed mastery of the "Voluntary Reporting Area" (VRA) procedures and the various report types required by the center. Participants will explore the mechanics of "Initial Reports," "Daily Position Reports," and "Final Reports," ensuring that data is transmitted accurately and timely. The program emphasizes the role of the Ship Security Officer in coordinating with the center during an active security incident, focusing on the clarity and precision of shared intelligence.

Coverage includes the analysis of the MDAT-GoG "Best Management Practices" (BMP West Africa) and the legal framework for reporting maritime crimes. The course addresses the nuances of "Alerts" and "Advisories" issued by the center and how to integrate this information into the Ship Security Plan. By focusing on the synergy between the vessel and the reporting center, this course equips maritime professionals with the expertise needed to utilize regional security architecture effectively.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Define the mission and operational structure of MDAT-GoG.
2. Identify the geographic boundaries of the Voluntary Reporting Area (VRA).
3. Execute the "Initial Report" procedure when entering the West Africa VRA.
4. Manage the submission of "Daily Position Reports" via email and SAT-C.
5. Identify the specific criteria for reporting a "Suspicious Activity."
6. Execute a "Security Incident Report" during an active piracy attempt.
7. Utilize MDAT-GoG "Advisories" and "Alerts" for route planning.
8. Coordinate with the center during a "Vessel Boarding" or "Hijacking."
9. Apply the principles of "BMP West Africa" in conjunction with reporting.
10. Differentiate between "MDAT-GoG" and other regional reporting hubs.
11. Implement "Silent Reporting" protocols for high-risk transits.
12. Manage the "Final Report" procedure when exiting the VRA.
13. Lead the bridge team in maintaining a high level of security awareness.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  

Masters, Ship Security Officers (SSO), Company Security Officers (CSO), and Marine Operations Managers.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.