Tender Summary: Presentation of Category C Skippers

Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a qualified service provider to deliver an annual training programme for Category C skipper certification. The municipality seeks to ensure that participants receive accredited instruction that meets national maritime safety standards, while simultaneously advancing local economic development and broad-based black economic empowerment through its procurement evaluation framework.

Scope

The contract encompasses the end-to-end delivery of theoretical and practical training modules required for Category C skipper qualification. Services include curriculum implementation, instructor-led classroom and practical sessions, candidate assessments, certification processing, and provision of all necessary training materials and facilities. The engagement operates on an annual cycle, with performance measured against predefined competency benchmarks and municipal compliance requirements.

Technical Requirements

• Access to approved training venues and practical water-based facilities capable of supporting hands-on skipper exercises.
• Up-to-date instructional resources, navigational aids, and safety equipment aligned with current maritime regulations.
• Robust quality assurance and assessment protocols to verify candidate competence before certification issuance.
• Administrative systems capable of maintaining accurate trainee records, examination results, and certification documentation.
• Compliance with all applicable occupational health and safety standards during practical training sessions.

Skills Requirements

• Certified marine instructors with recognized credentials in recreational skipper training and current industry experience.
• Strong pedagogical abilities to effectively deliver complex navigation, meteorology, and safety concepts to diverse learners.
• Valid first-aid, rescue, and risk management qualifications for all personnel involved in practical water-based activities.
• Proficiency in examination administration, competency evaluation, and regulatory reporting.
• Ability to adapt training delivery to accommodate varying skill levels while maintaining strict safety and accreditation standards.

Explanation of Key Terms & Concepts

• Category C Skippers: A South African licensing category for operating recreational vessels within specified length and engine power limits. Training covers chart reading, collision avoidance, weather interpretation, emergency procedures, and safe vessel handling.
• 80/20 Preference Points System: A municipal procurement evaluation model where 80 points are allocated to price competitiveness and 20 points to socio-economic transformation goals. Half of these preference points reward B-BBEE compliance, while the other half prioritise bidders demonstrating significant local community representation or employment.
• Central Supplier Database (CSD): A mandatory national registry managed by the National Treasury. All entities contracting with South African public institutions must register here to verify tax clearance, company registration, and financial standing.
• Formal Written Quotation (FWQ): A structured procurement method used for routine or lower-value services. It requires sealed physical submissions by a strict deadline, with no late, emailed, or faxed entries accepted. Evaluations follow a transparent, rule-based process.