Accra, November 3, 2023 – A delegation from the Regional Maritime University (RMU), led by Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr., the Ag. Vice Chancellor, and other Heads of Department visited Mitsui Ocean Development & Engineering Company (MODEC)to convey their heartfelt appreciation for the consistent support the company has extended to the university.
Dr. Brooks initiated the visit with an opening statement, emphasizing the significance of expressing gratitude in the pursuit of success. He stressed the importance of acknowledging supporters who have played a vital role in realizing one’s aspirations, highlighting that this visit’s sole purpose was to express gratitude for their unwavering support in enhancing RMU’s capabilities.
Mr. Theophilus Ahwireng, Managing Director of MODEC, expressed his satisfaction with the impact of MODEC’s support on RMU’s capacity development. He expressed optimism about the continued growth of this positive relationship, which he said, could lead to further support and collaborations. Mr. Ahwireng also shared exciting news about MODEC’s plans to donate a vessel to the university to facilitate student training. Although some logistical issues are being resolved, he assured the university of an official announcement in due course.
Mr. Ahwireng brought up a critical concern regarding the shortage of skilled labor in Ghana’s real estate industry, which often relies on labor from neighboring countries. He encouraged RMU to bridge this gap by offering short courses tailored to meet the needs of skilled professionals in various trades. He expressed his delight in observing RMU graduates and Ghanaian workers on vessels, particularly in Singapore.
Dr. Isaac Animah, Head of the Department , Marine Engineering, took the opportunity to
introduce some of the short courses offered by RMU in partnership with other partners and highlighted the recently introduced marine engine mechanic short course, designed to expedite the process of getting individuals employed on vessels. This course, he emphasized, holds particular appeal for women, offering them an alternative to the traditional four (4)-year training path and significant opportunities in the maritime industry.
Fareed Mohammed Amoah, a staff of RMU and a beneficiary of a welding class three program in Canada sponsored by MODEC, also conveyed his appreciation to MODEC for enabling him enhance his expertise. He emphasized that this development would not only benefit RMU but also have a positive impact on Ghana and the surrounding regions. Furthermore, he requested additional opportunities for exposure and hands-on experience to further expand his knowledge.
The visit concluded with a sense of optimism about future collaborations between RMU and MODEC. Both parties are committed to enhancing maritime education and creating opportunities for students, while also addressing the industry’s labor needs.
The RMU representatives reported that four(4) of the women have already secured jobs in Takoradi, and the other two(2) had a short stint in Tema, where they impressed their employers with their adaptability to different welding procedures and are also eager to join the oil and gas sector in Takoradi.