The opening of Lamu Port has inspired Faraj to pursue new opportunities in the maritime and logistics sector. He recently enrolled in the Forklift Operation course at Bandari Maritime Academy, where he is among the newly admitted trainees.
He says he made the decision because he did not want to watch opportunities at the port pass him by when he could acquire the skills needed to benefit from them.
“I said I can’t sit and watch opportunities at the Port benefit others while I can do something and get my share,” he said.
He is particularly impressed by the practical approach to training at Bandari Maritime Academy. After two weeks of training, he says he has gained practical skills that can be applied in a real working environment.
“What I have learned in the two weeks I’ve been here can earn me a living in the job market. At Bandari Maritime Academy trains you using actual forklift machines, giving you practical, hands-on experience.” he said.
The hands-on approach has given him confidence in his ability to operate a forklift and strengthened his determination to complete the course, obtain his certificate and pursue employment opportunities in the maritime and logistics sector.
He believes his experience carries an important message for young people across the country: acquiring practical skills can open doors to employment and improve livelihoods.
He challenged young people not to wait for jobs but to take the initiative by acquiring skills that can make them competitive in the job market.
“You can’t sit and wait for jobs. I am here at the Academy to get my certificate and get a job,” he said.
As Lamu Port continues to create new economic possibilities, his journey demonstrates how technical and vocational training can empower individuals to position themselves for emerging opportunities.
For him, enrolling at Bandari Maritime Academy is more than earning a certificate. It is about taking action, acquiring a marketable skill and positioning himself to benefit from opportunities in the growing maritime sector.
