On Thursday, August 1, 2024, a distinguished delegation from MOI University, Kenya, visited the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra to explore opportunities for collaboration in enhancing maritime education and training. The visit marks a significant step towards strengthening academic and professional ties between the two institutions, with a shared vision of advancing maritime studies across the African continent.
Participants from RMU and MOI at the ceremony.
The delegation, led by Prof. Simeon K. Mining, engaged in productive discussions with the Management of RMU, centered around the goal of establishing a robust partnership to support the African Centre of Excellence in Maritime Studies (ACEMS) at MOI University. This collaboration aims to elevate the standards of maritime education and training, positioning both institutions as leaders in this critical field.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of RMU, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr., and Prof. Simeon K. Mining.
In his welcoming remarks, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of RMU, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr., expressed his enthusiasm for the visit, noting that RMU has actively worked in recent years to enhance its marketing efforts and expand its visibility. He emphasized that these efforts have yielded significant results, paving the way for meaningful collaborations such as this one with MOI University. Dr. Brooks also took the opportunity to extend an invitation to the delegation for the upcoming International Blue Economy Conference, which RMU will host next year.
He added that, it is important to build African solidarity to foster maritime training within the continent. Dr. Brooks stated, highlighting the strategic importance of such collaborations in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in maritime education across Africa. He further announced that RMU and MOI University would formalize their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will lay the foundation for future joint initiatives.
Dr. Edwin Ogumbo, Coordinator of ACEMS at MOI University.
Prof. Simeon K. Mining, speaking on behalf of the MOI University delegation, expressed confidence in RMU as a strong partner in their mission to enhance maritime training standards at MOI. He expressed his commitment towards working together and seizing the opportunities within the ocean underlining the shared commitment to advancing maritime education and research.
The visit also featured insightful presentations from both institutions. Madam Sika Attipoe, Head of the Business Development Center at RMU, provided an overview of RMU’s programmes and activities, showcasing the university’s achievements and future plans. Dr. Edwin Ogumbo, Coordinator of ACEMS at MOI University, delivered a detailed presentation on their ongoing efforts to tap into the vast potential of the maritime sector. He also proposed the creation of an African Maritime University, a visionary initiative aimed at fostering a dynamic and holistic approach to maritime education and training across the continent.
Madam Sika Attipoe, Head of the Business Development Center at RMU.
This working visit signifies a promising beginning for what is expected to be a fruitful partnership between RMU and MOI University. Both institutions are poised to make significant contributions to the development of maritime education in Africa, ensuring that the continent is well-equipped to harness the opportunities presented by the Blue Economy.
Information Source: Marketing Unit.