Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) is currently conducting Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments and training for Coxswains in Kisumu County, targeting 250 practitioners from the Lake Region. The initiative is being implemented as a pilot project sponsored by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) ahead of a larger-scale coxswain certification programme planned for the Greater Lake Region.
The exercise seeks to recognize and formalize the skills and competencies acquired by coxswains through years of practical experience, enabling them to obtain nationally recognized certification and enhance their employability within the maritime sector.
The Academy is undertaking the programme in collaboration with other maritime training institutions, including Kisumu Maritime Centre (KMC) and Kenya Coast National Polytechnic (KCNP), reflecting a coordinated effort to strengthen safety, professionalism, and standards in inland water transport operations.
Representing Bandari Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer Dr. Eric Katana, BMA Senior Principal Trainer 1 Nautical Science, Maj. (Rtd) Franklyne Toniok, expressed confidence in the Academy’s ability to meet and surpass its target.
“By the end of the second day, the Academy had already assessed more than 150 coxswains against a target of 250, demonstrating excellent progress and exceeding expectations,” said Toniok.
He noted that the RPL framework provides an important pathway for experienced maritime practitioners to gain formal recognition of their competencies.
“RPL assessment and training give trainees an opportunity to formalize their skills and improve their employability. Our role is to guide them through the assessment process and recommend qualified candidates to the Kenya Maritime Authority for certification as Coxswain Class III,” he added.
The initiative underscores BMA’s commitment to supporting the growth of Kenya’s blue economy by building a competent, certified, and safety-conscious maritime workforce. Through partnerships with key stakeholders, the Academy continues to play a pivotal role in developing human capital for the country’s inland and maritime transport sectors.
