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Introduction of six-month competency course for Deck Ratings to appear in the Second Mate (Foreign Going) Certificate of Competency Examination

**Summary of DGS Circular 26 of 2026**
Applicable to: Deck Ratings appearing for Second Mate (Foreign Going) Certificate of Competency Examination
Effective Date: 2026-05-18
Superseded Circulars: None

Key Changes and Requirements

1. New Six-Month Competency Course

A new six-month competency course has been introduced for Deck Ratings appearing for the Second Mate (Foreign Going) Certificate of Competency Examination.

  • Duration: Six months
  • Course Content: The course covers various topics including terrestrial and coastal navigation, celestial navigation, meteorology, bridge equipment, bridge watchkeeping, and emergencies.
  • Application: Candidates must apply for the course through the official application portal (DG Shipping Portal).
II/4  Competence No. 1: Plan and conduct a passage and determine position

2. Course Syllabus

The course syllabus is structured in accordance with the competencies specified under STCW Code Table A-II/1 and is aligned with IMO Model Course 7.03 (Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch).

  • Course Duration: Approximately 112 hours
  • Topics Covered: Terrestrial and coastal navigation, celestial navigation, meteorology, bridge equipment, bridge watchkeeping, and emergencies.
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