The Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has entered into an agreement with the Korea Institute for Maritime and Fisheries Technology (KIMFT)  that will see the two institutions collaborate in joint training and certification, exchange programs, joint capacity building programs among other areas.

The MOU signed by Bandari Maritime College C.E.O Dr Eric Katana and the KIMFT president Jong Kim in Busan Campus South Korea on Wednesday was witnessed by the Principal Secretary  State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs Geoffrey Kaituko.

"This MOU will enormously contribute to the Government of Kenya’s efforts to leverage the oceans and blue economy to create sustainable job opportunities for young people." said Kaituko.

Adding " More importantly this will enable Cadets from our licenced Maritime Education and Training Institutions to receive high quality maritime education and training at KIMFT’s advanced facilities will support Kenya’s efforts to grow its Merchant Navy and grow her maritime resources."

Kenya made a formal application in February 2024 to KIMFT through the Korean Embassy in Nairobi for consideration in the Global On Board Training Programme & the Impartment of Advanced MET Programme for the 2024/2025 year.

Other areas of collaboration between the two institutions includes curriculum development, sourcing for onboard training for students (sea-time), research, develoement and innovation, and exchange of publications and teaching materials.

PS Kaituko noted "We wish to expand the said areas of cooperation to include donation/grants of training equipment and facilities including and not limited to simulators for the use of the Academy."

There are currently seven(7) public and private institutions in Kenya offering maritime education and training, graduating more than 200 personnel annually in various maritime education and training programs such as marine engineering, nautical science, maritime transport & logistics at degree, diploma and certificate levels.