By John Ndegwa / BMA
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, has made a compelling presentation during the ongoing Africa Maritime Conference, where he highlighted the crucial role of Maritime education and training in driving the growth of the Blue Economy in East Africa.
Speaking during the Conference, Dr. Katana emphasized Bandari Maritime Academy’s mission to equip learners with practical skills and competencies aligned to the evolving needs of the global shipping and Maritime sectors. He noted that the Academy’s mandate is deeply intertwined with Kenya’s and the region’s broader goal of unlocking the immense potential of the Blue Economy as a driver of sustainable economic development and job creation.
In his presentation, Dr. Katana underscored that Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) continues to evolve its curricula to align with emerging trends and technologies in the global shipping industry. This approach ensures that BMA graduates remain competitive, competent, and ready to meet the ever-changing demands of the Maritime sector.
He further highlighted the Academy’s strengthened partnerships with both local and international shipping companies, which have enhanced opportunities for cadet placements. These collaborations provide students with valuable hands-on experience and practical exposure to real-world Maritime operations a key element in shaping well-rounded Maritime professionals.
Dr. Katana also emphasized that investing in Maritime skills development is central to tackling youth unemployment while advancing sustainable utilization of ocean and coastal resources within the framework of the Blue Economy. He called for stronger regional cooperation among East African Maritime institutions to promote shared standards, joint research initiatives, and exchange programs measures he said are essential to shaping the future of Maritime Education and Training (MET) in the region.
Dr. Katana, who is accompanied by BMA Deputy Director Maritime Education and Training Chief Engineer Titus Kilonzi, reaffirmed Bandari Maritime Academy’s commitment to regional and continental cooperation, underscoring that a united approach in Maritime education will accelerate Africa’s competitiveness in global trade and Maritime innovation.
