Kongsberg Digital (KDI) and the University of South-Eastern
Norway (USN) are partnering to develop cloud-based simulation exercises for the
international maritime education market.
As a developer of cloud-based simulation software, KDI is
aiming to drive the evolution of cloud simulation technology as a sustainable
and immersive supplementary tool for building competencies within the maritime
industry, the company said, adding its partnership agreement with USN will seek
to scale up the scope of maritime training. The commercial agreement will
enable USN to develop its cloud-based training products and distribute them
globally via KDI’s digital platform K-Sim Connect.
The aims of the partnership complement both the cloud-based
maritime simulation initiative supported by Innovation Norway – which has the
aim of addressing the global need for easily accessible, high quality,
simulation-based training solutions for teaching and practicing navigation –
and the COAST (Center of Excellence in Maritime Simulator Training and
Assessment) project, for which USN is the host institution.
Petter Aasen, Rector at USN, said, “The move from physical
simulators to cloud-based solutions will enhance our educational programs and
make us ready for the future of maritime professional training. The teaching
methods and technology developed through this partnership will strengthen the
quality and relevance of maritime training, both continuing and advancing
education for a working life that is changing rapidly. At the same time, it
enables USN to strengthen our position as an international provider.”
“For KDI, this agreement means that we can both develop and
ensure the quality of our cloud simulations in cooperation with a partner with
extensive competence in using simulators for education and research purposes,”
said Andreas Jagtøyen, Executive Vice President, Digital Ocean, Kongsberg
Digital.
Cloud simulator solutions will also be adapted for
post-qualification training and will contribute to simplifying the process of
regular certificate renewals, increasing opportunities and flexibility within
the sphere of maritime education.
“In the future we will welcome more partners to provide
simulation exercises and other services on the platform with the aim of
creating an entire ecosystem for the maritime education and training industry,”
Jagtøyen said.