The Regional Maritime University (RMU), based in Accra, Ghana, has taken a significant step in advancing maritime education in Africa by formalizing a partnership with the Advanced Evangelical Institute of Applied Technology and Management (ISETAG) in Douala, Cameroon. This milestone was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at a ceremony attended by key representatives from both institutions.
Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr., Acting Vice Chancellor of RMU, and Mr. Aurelien Brunnel Ngomen Pamen, CEO of ISETAG, formalize a partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement.
This development builds upon an earlier agreement reached in September 2024, which set the stage for a long-term collaboration designed to enhance access to quality maritime education and training in Cameroon. The partnership will establish an academic affiliation between RMU and ISETAG, aimed at equipping students with the skills and resources needed to excel in the maritime industry.
Commitment to Maritime Education
During the signing ceremony, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr., Acting Vice Chancellor of RMU, expressed his excitement about the partnership and its potential impact. He highlighted the importance of fostering strong relationships with other African educational institutions to address the region’s growing demand for skilled maritime professionals.
Key stakeholders from RMU and ISETAG engage in a strategic meeting to discuss the implementation of their newly signed Memorandum of Agreement. The session highlighted collaborative plans to advance maritime education and training in the region.
“This partnership has been a long time coming, and we are thrilled to see it materialize. It represents a critical step in strengthening regional capacity in maritime education and training, while also reaffirming RMU’s commitment to advancing maritime excellence across the continent,” Dr. Brooks remarked.
A Shared Vision for Growth
Mr. Aurelien Brunnel Ngomen Pamen, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ISETAG, also spoke passionately about the collaboration. He praised RMU for its position as the leading institution for maritime education in Africa and expressed confidence in the partnership’s ability to drive positive change within Cameroon’s maritime sector.
“We are excited to partner with RMU, a globally respected institution known for its innovative programs. By replicating some of these programs at ISETAG, we can support the growth of the maritime industry in Cameroon and provide our students with world-class educational opportunities,” Mr. Pamen stated.
Scholarships Cement Partnership
In a demonstration of goodwill and commitment to the partnership, RMU awarded tuition-free scholarships in September 2024 to two students from ISETAG. These students were offered the opportunity to pursue degrees in Marine Engineering and Port and Shipping Administration at RMU. This gesture underscores the shared vision of both institutions to promote access to high-quality education while addressing financial barriers.
A Promising Future
This partnership represents a significant step forward for both RMU and ISETAG, as it seeks to expand the reach of maritime education and create a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the maritime industry in Africa. With a shared commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and regional development, the collaboration promises to strengthen ties between Ghana and Cameroon and contribute to the broader advancement of maritime education on the continent.
Information Source: Marketing Unit.