IIC Academy Delivers Second S-8B Marine Geospatial Information Program in Vietnam
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IIC Academy, on behalf of the Australian Government, has successfully completed the second delivery of the IBSC-recognised S-8B Marine Geospatial Information Program for professionals from the Vietnamese Hydrographic Office (VHO) and the Vietnam Maritime Safety Corporation (VMSC). This milestone continues to build regional capacity in marine cartography and geospatial standards across the Indo-Pacific.
Strengthening International Collaboration
The program, designed in alignment with the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence (IBSC), was delivered as part of Australia's ongoing commitment to supporting maritime education and safety in the region.
The graduation ceremony, hosted by Senior Captain Tran Van Hieu, Deputy Hydrographer of the VHO, brought together senior representatives from the Vietnam Hydrographic Board, VHO, VMSC, the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, the Australian Defence Force, and Geoscience Australia. Speeches by Captain Tran Van Hieu and Mr Glenn Elson, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, reaffirmed the shared value and importance of this partnership between Vietnam and Australia.
Advancing Standards and Expertise
Over six months, twelve participants completed a comprehensive curriculum designed to strengthen skills in marine geospatial data management, chart production, and the transition from the IHO S-57 to the modern S-100 framework.
During the event, technical discussions led by experts from VHO, the Australian Hydrographic Office (AHO), and IIC Academy focused on how hydrographic offices around the world are evolving their operations to align with new digital standards.
Jonathan Pritchard, IIC Academy's subject matter expert, contributed remotely from the United Kingdom, sharing technical insights and supporting the students' final discussions.
A Milestone Achievement
The ceremony concluded with IIC Academy Instructor Vasco Candeias and Managing Director Oceania David Crossman presenting certificates to the graduates in recognition of their outstanding dedication and achievement.
Speaking on the occasion, Captain Tran Van Hieu emphasised that the program's success has enhanced Vietnam's hydrographic capability and reinforced the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Australia.
Building Capacity for the Future
This successful collaboration between the Australian Government, Geoscience Australia, the Australian Defence Force, and IIC Academy underscores a shared vision to promote safe navigation, sustainable maritime trade, and geospatial capacity building in the region.
IIC Academy extends sincere thanks to its Vietnamese and Australian partners for their continued support and commitment to advancing marine education, safety, and innovation across the Indo-Pacific.
For information about the IIC Academy S-8B Marine Geospatial Information Program, visit: www.iicacademy.com/S8BOverview