Promotion is generally made on the basis of seniority and performance, provided that the officer has obtained the appropriate certificates. It is definitely an added advantage for the officers to obtain all the required certificates as early as possible. Please refer to Appendix 5 for the career paths of deck officers and engineer officers.
An officer of any rank may remain at sea until he retires. However, there are also opportunities for him to secure a post in shore-based establishments if he so desires. A master or a deck officer may become a marine or cargo superintendent attending to all problems related to the operation of ships. He may also become a lecturer in navigation or join the Civil Service dealing with marine matters. He may also be able to secure professional engineering appointments with shipping companies, power stations and other related establishments. A radio officer may find employment in coastal radio stations, or with government departments. He may also secure employment in the electronics industry.