By John Ndegwa / BMA
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) on Tuesday hosted renowned youth champion Charlene Ruto at the Academy in Mombasa, a visit that inspired students and reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to empowering the next generation of Maritime professionals.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors, Eng. Lung’anzi Chai Mangale, together with the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, received Ms. Ruto and took her on a guided tour of the Academy’s state-of-the-art training facilities. During the tour, she commended the institution’s efforts in nurturing skilled seafarers and advancing Maritime education and training in Kenya.
Ms. Ruto later joined students and staff at the Academy Amphitheatre, where she addressed the gathering. In her remarks, she applauded the leadership of both the Academy’s management and the Bandari Maritime Academy Students’ Association (BMASA) for creating an environment that encourages youth participation and leadership. She also pledged to initiate a mentorship program aimed at supporting students in personal development, leadership, and career growth.
Speaking during the event, Eng. Mangale described Ms. Ruto’s visit as an inspiration to students and a testament to the growing recognition of Bandari Maritime Academy as a hub for youth empowerment and Maritime excellence.
On his part, Dr. Katana expressed appreciation for the visit, noting that the Academy remains open to collaborations with stakeholders and partners who share in its vision of producing competent professionals for the Blue Economy.
“We are keen to build partnerships that expand opportunities for our trainees and enhance their exposure to real-world Maritime experiences,” Dr. Katana said.
A key highlight of the visit was the official flagging off of the first Bandari Maritime Academy Students’ Association (BMASA) by Ms. Ruto, marking a historic milestone in strengthening student representation and participation in institutional growth.
The BMASA Chairman, Mr. Vincent Kagechu, thanked Ms. Ruto for her encouragement and affirmed the association’s commitment to championing students’ welfare and promoting leadership among Maritime trainees.
