By John Ndegwa / BMA
Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) students from various faculties today took part in an educational tour aboard the French Navy vessel MV Champlain, which had docked at the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Mombasa port.
The visit was led by Senior Career Services Officer Samuel Dube, who accompanied the students as part of the academy’s efforts to provide practical exposure to modern maritime operations. During the tour, the students were given the opportunity to explore key sections of the vessel and learn firsthand about naval ship operations, onboard navigation systems, safety protocols, and the daily responsibilities of crew members.
French Navy personnel onboard the ship guided the students through different areas of the vessel, explaining its capabilities and mission profile. MV Champlain is a French naval logistics and patrol vessel designed to support maritime security operations, regional cooperation, and humanitarian missions in the Indian Ocean region.
According to Dube, such engagements are important in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world maritime practice. The tour not only broadened the students’ technical knowledge but also strengthened Bandari Maritime Academy’s ties with international maritime stakeholders operating in the region.
