Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has strengthened its position as a regional hub for maritime professional education following the official commissioning of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) East Africa Branch Office at the Academy.
The new office is expected to expand access to internationally recognized maritime qualifications and enhance professional capacity across Kenya and the wider East African region.
The office was officially commissioned by the ICS International Chairman, Mr. Krishnan Subramaniam, in the presence of the Bandari Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Mr. Subramaniam commended Bandari Maritime Academy for spearheading the establishment of the East Africa Branch Office, noting that it will streamline the delivery of ICS professional courses in Kenya while improving access to globally recognised maritime qualifications.
He observed that the office will play a key role in preparing maritime professionals to respond to emerging trends shaping the global shipping industry, including artificial intelligence, automation, blockchain technology, digital documentation, smart ports, data analytics, autonomous vessels and green shipping initiatives.
Bandari Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, lauded the longstanding partnership between the Academy and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, particularly following the approval of BMA as an official Teaching and Examination Centre for ICS professional programmes.
He noted that the commissioning of the East Africa Branch Office reinforces the Academy’s commitment to developing a highly skilled maritime workforce, promoting professional excellence and supporting the growth and competitiveness of Kenya’s maritime sector and the wider East African region.
Beginning in September 2026, Bandari Maritime Academy will admit students to the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers’ professional programmes, including the Foundation Diploma, Advanced Diploma and the Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE), further expanding access to globally recognized maritime qualifications in the region.
