Postgraduate Diploma for Aspiring Maritime Economist

BY: .

Ms Sikhulile Gama’s dream of becoming a maritime economist may soon become a reality after being awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Maritime Studies.

Gama is employed as a Junior Entry Operator in the Clearing and Forwarding division at Sturrock Grindrod Maritime’s Richards Bay Branch where she is responsible for passing entries, cargo dues and documentation for cargo being imported and exported.

‘This qualification means that I have a more indepth understanding of how the Maritime Industry operates, how certain matters are dealt with, approaches to resolving disputes and the commercial aspect of it,’ said Gama.  ‘It touches base on a few aspects of the Maritime industry such as Customs, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Port Economics and International Business Transactions.’

Gama yearns for more knowledge in the maritime sector and her mind is set on pursuing a master’s degree in the near future. This passion is fuelled by her admiration of the British scholar and maritime economist Mr Martin Stopford who has worked in the diverse Maritime Industry and has published extensively.

‘The learning journey is a never ending one and you learn more by sharing your knowledge. I intend giving back to our youth by sharing and assisting anyone in need within the Maritime Industry, motivating them to always work hard and give it your all. Hard work and persistency always pay off,’ said Gama.

Gama sees this newly acquired qualification as a key to many opportunities that exist in the maritime sector. ‘South Africa is rich in so many ways. Our geographical positioning enables us to assist Eastern and Western trades which is phenomenal for our economy. There are so many sources that motivate me to further my studies and being a future South African maritime economist is the foundation of my motivation,’ she said.

She thanked her employer for the financial support she received during her studies. She also thanked her family, friends and colleagues who were pillars of strength, especially when she had a baby during her studies.

During her spare time Gama enjoys going to the beach and relaxing at a spot where she can see vessels at anchorage, vessels receiving pilots and being brought in or taken out of the Richards Bay Port.

Hazel Langa