Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) welcomed a delegation from Wilhelmsen Ship Management (WSM) on January 28, 2025, to discuss potential areas of collaboration with the Department of Marine Engineering.
The visit, a follow-up to initial engagements in 2024, was part of WSM’s mission to engage key maritime stakeholders in Kenya regarding crewing opportunities for ships under their management.
Receiving the delegation, Prof. Eng. Bernard Ikua, Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration and Finance, representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Ngumi, emphasized the significance of the proposed partnership, noting that it aligns with JKUAT’s focus on market-driven training, which prepares graduates for global employment opportunities.
Prof. Ikua also highlighted JKUAT’s commitment to expanding its capacity to accommodate more students in its Bachelor of Marine Engineering program. He also added that the University is also working towards offering a Bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science, important strides towards strengthening efficient maritime transport and trade.
WSM’s Global Head of Marine Human Resources, Mr. Lasse Hansen, underscored the importance of early industry exposure for
students, enabling them to better understand the demands of maritime careers upon graduation.
Dr. Jotham Munyalo, Chair of the Department of Marine Engineering, echoed this sentiment, calling the partnership a remarkable opportunity for students to gain real-world experience. He stated that many of the JKUAT alumni, who include the June 2024 graduates have received excellent performance reviews.
This was confirmed by Ms. Nancy Karigithu, Kenya’s Special Envoy and Advisor on Maritime and Blue Economy at the Executive Office of the President as she lauded the exemplary performance of JKUAT Marine Engineering alumni.
She shared glowing feedback from countries such as Korea, where JKUAT graduates have excelled through earlier partnerships.
The meeting was also attended by Prof. Titus Kivaa Acting Principal College of Engineering and Technology (COETEC), Mr. Craig De Savoye (WSM) and Ms. Heidi Dahl from the Norwegian Embassy in Kenya.
The visit to JKUAT was a significant step aimed at formalizing collaboration between WSM, the Kenyan government, tertiary institutions, and maritime stakeholders. It promises to enhance opportunities for Kenyan seafarers and cadets, paving the way for increased employment and growth in the maritime sector.
