The government is seeking partnerships with universities and industry players to prepare the next generation of maritime professionals and create jobs for the youth, the Principal Secretary (PS) for Shipping and Maritime Affairs has said.
PS Geoffrey Kaituko said that the maritime industry is an integral part of the global economy and there was need to keep up with the rapid evolution with new technologies, regulations, and opportunities.
He said the government has already cultivated strategic partnerships over the years with international shipping lines, global maritime organizations and other maritime nations.
“To be competitive in this space, we need to work collaboratively. These partnerships are designed to provide our maritime students with the critical sea time they need for their training and eventual certification,” the PS said.
Kaituko was speaking during the award of accreditation to Mount Kenya University (MKU)’s new Malindi Maritime Academy by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).
“As we mark World Maritime Day, the theme for this year, “Navigating the Future Together,” could not be more relevant to our gathering. We are not only celebrating MKU’s commitment to advancing maritime education but also a significant step towards positioning Kenya as a global leader in the blue economy,” he averred.
Kaituko said one of the biggest challenges for maritime graduates globally is securing sea time, a prerequisite for professional qualification.
“Through our collaborations with Germany, Japan, South Korea, China, and other major maritime nations, we have secured agreements that will allow Kenyan cadets, including those graduating from institutions like this academy, to undergo their sea-time training on international vessels,” he noted.
The PS said these opportunities are essential not only for the hands-on experience they provide but also for the exposure to international maritime standards and operations.
The State has also strengthened relationships with leading shipping lines such as Maersk, CMA CGM and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to ensure that Kenyan cadets and maritime professionals are given priority for placement on their fleets.
Dr. Vincent Gaitho, Chairman, University Council at MKU said the momentous occasion marks not only the expansion of the institution’s educational horizons, but also underscores MKU’s commitment to positioning Kenya as a global leader in maritime education and training.
“Just as Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama once navigated uncharted waters, we embark on a new journey to navigate the future of maritime education, innovation, and economic empowerment,” he said.
“We commit and strive to continuously offer internationally accredited programs which are meticulously crafted to meet the global demand for qualified seafarers and maritime professionals, ensuring our graduates are equipped to excel in a competitive international maritime sector,” he added.
He also pleaded with the business community and international development partners and investors to explore opportunities and invest within the maritime sector.
“Traditional investments in real estate are valuable, but the maritime industry offers vast untapped potential. Investing in merchant ships, maritime vessels, and the broader supply chain can yield substantial financial returns while simultaneously driving job creation and economic diversification,” he noted.
MKU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi, said the institution has also been accredited to offer Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) courses.
“These internationally recognized courses will form the foundation of the global maritime training, ensuring that seafarers meet the highest standards of safety, competence, and professionalism,” Prof. Jaganyi said.
By Kamau Njoroge
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