VICTORIA, Seychelles — Seychelles Maritime Academy (SMA) graduate Neil Azemia embarked on a significant career step on Wednesday, joining the crew of the Spanish purse seine vessel Gallerna III of the Albacore 2, Isabella Fishing fleet.
He is the third intern from the academy to join the fleet, marking another milestone in the partnership between SMA and the fishing industry. A small group of well-wishers accompanied him on board, including his father Bernard Azemia, SMA registrar Angelique Reddy, fellow SMA graduate Sarah Etheve, the executive director of the Ministry of Fisheries and the Blue Economy, and the director of SMA.
The visiting party was given a tour of the vessel, with a focus on the engine room, where Neil will spend most of his time gaining practical experience and honing his skills. ‘This opportunity will provide him with invaluable hands-on training as he begins his career at sea,’ the academy said.
SMA noted that placements on Spanish and European tuna purse seiners have become a valued pathway for graduates to gain exposure to industrial-scale fishing operations, while supporting the Seychelles-flagged and partner fleets that operate in the Indian Ocean. The academy wished Neil a safe and successful first contract.
