By John Ndegwa / BMA
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, paid a courtesy call to Vasilena Koleva, Director of Alliance Française de Mombasa.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to explore strategic areas of collaboration, with a strong focus on integrating French language training into BMA’s academic and professional programs. This initiative aims to equip students and cadets with vital linguistic skills that enhance their competitiveness and mobility within the global maritime industry.
French is one of the most widely spoken languages worldwide and plays a critical role in international relations, trade, and maritime operations. Notably, it is an official working language of the International Maritime Organization and is widely used across many African coastal nations, key maritime hubs, and international organizations.
Proficiency in French therefore offers BMA graduates a significant advantage in accessing regional and global employment opportunities, particularly within Francophone Africa and international shipping networks.
The partnership also seeks to promote cultural exchange, professional development, and capacity building through tailored language programs, certifications, and potential joint initiatives between the two institutions.
Dr. Katana was accompanied by Fatma Mzee, Senior Partnership and Resource Mobilization Officer at Bandari Maritime Academy.
