David’s Panama Maritime Training Service Facility
Oct 21st, 2006 by Don Ray
Every once in a while, my friend Darío Quiroz invites me to visit one of his English classes. The previous times have been in Universidad Latina, but this time it was at the home of the Panama Maritime Training Service.
The Panama Maritime Training Service trains young Panamanians the skills required to obtain positions on cruise ships. The training covers all facets of what they will need to know.
This was Darío’s English class. From left to right are Adán Castillo, Chrisbell Araúz, Roberto Denis Justavino, Elvis Gómez, and Karina Jiménez. Darío is standing.
We spent about an hour in general conversation. The students ranged in age from Karina 17 to Roberto at 30. The other three were in the early 20’s. This class began at 9:00 PM and went to 10:30. All of the students had worked all day prior to attending this night class. I had an enjoyable time. It is always fun to get to talk to the younger generation in Panama.
After the class, Darío gave me a tour of the training facilities. The first place we visited was the Lab where students were using the Rosetta Stone for practice in English. Here are some photos of the Lab and its students. The Lab instructor was Lisbeth Birmingham. Thanks to Lisbeth for allowing me to interrupt her class in session.
Besides the Lab and the English classes, the students also practice some of the work activities for the jobs they may have on the cruise ships.
Some may have a position in housekeeping and this is a model room that is used in the training.
Another training facility was the Pirate’s Bar. I think I will schedule my next visit when they need practice in making Margaritas and Piña Coladas.
This was another enjoyable outing. I always enjoy participating with Darío and his various English groups. He has a pretty tough schedule. This day he started teaching at 7:00 AM and ended at 10:30 PM. Thanks for inviting me Darío.
[...] This is Elvis. You may remember him as well as Roberto from my evening at the Panama Maritime Training Service. His topic was chemical pollution. [...]
[...] Back in October, Darío invited me to work with one of his classes at the Panama Maritime Training Services. That post can be seen here. Monday of this week, he called and asked if I could come help him again. This time was different from the last. This time Darío wanted me to roll play as an interviewer for the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Company. [...]