On September 26, 2024, the Merchant Marine Training School launched the STCW Basic Safety Course No. 06 & 07 – 2024(S), attended by one officer and thirty-nine sailors. Captain Saliya Paranagama, Training Captain of the Naval and Maritime Academy, was the chief guest. Spanning five weeks, the course aims to equip participants with skills necessary for obtaining the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) from the Director General of Merchant Shipping. This initiative is pivotal for naval personnel seeking second career opportunities after dedicated service in the Sri Lanka Navy