(3)Every such contract shall be executed in the presence of, and shall be attested by, the shipping master of the port, who shall, before the execution of the contract, satisfy himself-(a)that the intended apprentice-(i)understands the contents and provisions of the contract;(ii)freely consents to be bound;(iii)has attained the age of [sixteen years] [Substituted for the words 'fifteen years' by Act No. 32 of 2014.]; and(iv)is in possession of a certificate to the effect that he is physically fit for sea service;(b)if the intended apprentice is [a young person] [Substituted for the words 'a minor' by Act No. 32 of 2014.], that his guardian's consent has been obtained to his being bound as an apprentice.
