The Erasmus Coordinator and Assistant to the Vice-President (Strategic Initiatives) at the World Maritime University (WMU), Ms Anna Karlqvist, on Monday, July 13, 2026, paid a working visit to the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra.
Dr Owusu-Nyarko(fourth right) exchanging pleasantries with Anna Karlqvist, together with other RMU representatives
She was accompanied by a Maritime Administration Officer from the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), Mr Bismark O. Acheampong. The visit formed part of efforts to deepen collaboration following the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two (2) institutions. It also aligns with Anna Karlqvist’s role in coordinating international student and staff exchanges at WMU.
Welcoming the delegation, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Dr Isaac Owusu-Nyarko, expressed RMU’s appreciation for the visit and the growing partnership, describing it as a significant step towards advancing maritime education, research and capacity development.
Dr Owusu-Nyarko(left) welcoming the visitors
He noted that RMU was excited about collaborating with WMU, particularly in expanding research opportunities and creating more academic and professional prospects for students and faculty.
Dr Owusu-Nyarko highlighted several ongoing initiatives at the University, including the recently secured Lloyd’s Register Foundation research grant, and disclosed that another collaborative project involving WMU was expected to commence in the coming months.
He further explained that RMU continues to review and modernise its curricula to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in an industry increasingly shaped by emerging technologies and innovation.
RMU representatives with the visitors after the meeting
The University’s Quality Coordinator, Mr Prosper Mawusi, took the delegation through RMU’s history, mission, vision and accreditation processes. He also highlighted the University’s strategic growth agenda, particularly its commitment to strengthening research, enhancing academic quality and promoting excellence in maritime education across Africa in line with WMU’s strategic objectives.
In her presentation, Anna Karlqvist thanked RMU for the opportunity to build a stronger partnership in areas including research, curriculum development, academic supervision and collaborative projects across Africa.
Anna Karlqvist(left) making her statement. With her, is Mr Bismark O. Acheampong
She stressed the importance of identifying common areas of interest to produce competent maritime professionals while generating research to support evidence-based policy formulation and decision-making within the maritime sector.
Anna Karlqvist reaffirmed WMU’s commitment to supporting RMU’s research agenda and other strategic initiatives, describing RMU as an important partner in advancing maritime education and sustainable development in the region.
She observed that rapid technological advancements and innovation within the global maritime industry required highly competent seafarers and maritime professionals.
She therefore encouraged RMU to take advantage of funding opportunities available through the European Union and other international agencies to strengthen research, build institutional capacity and provide students with the skills and sea-time opportunities needed to pursue successful maritime careers.
The Head of the Nautical Science Department, Mr Benedict Aubyn, underscored the need to expand opportunities for RMU cadets through increased shipboard placements, greater funding to promote female participation in the maritime sector and policies that would ensure continuous access to onboard training for cadets to bridge the industry’s manpower gap.
Mr Aubyn(second right) speaking at the meeting
The Head of the Business Development Center (BDC), Madam Sika Attipoe, reaffirmed RMU’s commitment to maximising the opportunities presented by the MoU with WMU.
She said the University would actively explore collaborative initiatives that would enhance academic development, research and student mobility while working closely with WMU to understand and access available grant opportunities and funding mechanisms.
Madam Sika Attipoe(right) making a presentation
Madam Attipoe thanked Anna Karlqvist for the visit and expressed confidence that continued engagement between the two institutions would yield significant benefits for RMU, WMU and the broader maritime industry.