Captain Nicholas Cooper, a past cadet of the South African Training Ship (SATS) General Botha, which was a precursor to the Maritime Studies Department , received a copy of the latest edition from its author, Lieutenant Commander Alan Peacock, at the book’s launch last year.
Captain Cooper, in turn, chose to donate the valuable volume to his alma mater.
The Admiralty Manual of Navigation Volume I, which is currently in its tenth edition, deals with navigational theory, procedures and techniques. The 2008 revised version, while rooted in the navigation principles that have been used by seafarers for centuries, also looks at the influence of the electronic age and discusses modern navigational aids.
The book was presented to CPUT, on behalf of Captain Cooper, by Captain Tony Nicholas, Chair of the SATS General Botha Old Boys' Association at a ceremony at Granger Bay Campus on 20 February 2009.
Uniformed Cadet Class Captains were on hand to accept the 690-page volume
Captain Nicholas noted that it was, “a pleasure to meet a student representative of CPUT’s Maritime studies,” whom he referred to as “a well spoken and pleasant young man.”
He said that the re-introduction of uniforms for Maritime Studies students has been a very positive step as it “instils a sense of discipline and pride in the students.”
Prof Edward Snyders, Head of Maritime Studies, said that the Department “treasures its long lasting association with Captain Tony Nicholas and the SATS General Botha Old Boys' Association.”
“We are pleased that the ‘old salts’ are still keen on the development of our youth and, with this kind gesture, continue ‘handing over the watch’ to them.”
Prof Snyders added, “Without their indispensable mentorship and encouragement, our seafaring traditions and comradeship may be severely undermined and threatened.”
The new copy of The Principles of Navigation:Admiralty Manual of Navigation Volume 1 has been catalogued and placed in the Granger Bay Library for use by both staff and students.
By Ilana Abratt
Photo: A CPUT Cadet Class Captain accepts the inscribed copy of The Principles of Navigation: Admiralty Manual of Navigation Volume I from Captain Tony Nicholas, Chair of the SATS General Botha Old Boys' Association.
