TUM recognizes maritime programmes as part of its flagship courses, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Laila Abubakar has said.
For this reason, the University is working to reclaim its position as a center of maritime excellence in the region. Prof Laila said this on Saturday of December 7, 2024, when she graced the annual convention and dinner night organized by the Association of Maritime Practitioners of Kenya (AMP-K) at Pride Inn Mombasa.
The event celebrated the launch of the Journal of the Association of Maritime Practitioners - Kenya.
“TUM is playing a pivotal role as the only maritime institution in Kenya approved to offer STCW-compliant courses, including Medical First Aid, Port facility security course, company security officer course and so many others,” Prof Laila said.
The Chief Guest at the function was Hassan Ali Joho, the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. Other distinguished guests included General (Rtd) Samson Mwathethe who chairs the Blue Economy Commission; Captain Suleiman Said Bakari, the President of AMP-K; Nautical Vice President Talib Ibrahim Mohamed; and Captain Twalib Khamis, among many others.
Captain Suleiman Said Bakari opened the event with an impassioned speech, acknowledging the vital role the maritime industry plays in Kenya’s economic development. He underscored AMP-K’s commitment to promoting continuous education, technological advancements, and market competitiveness in the sector.
In his key note address, CS Hassan Joho emphasized on the importance of private sector participation in the maritime industry.
Joho highlighted the need for government policies to support global demands and tackle challenges like resource allocation and sea-time opportunities for sailors.
He also proposed establishment of financial institutions to support the blue economy and called for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to increase Kenya’s maritime contribution, which currently stands at just 0.5 per cent.
The main objective of the event was to foster collaboration and networking among maritime stakeholders, including seafarers, maritime lawyers, ship agents, and industry players. Discussions centered on addressing maritime challenges, enhancing competitiveness, and leveraging regulatory and policy reforms to drive job creation and GDP growth.
