The Principal Secretary of the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs Dr. Geoffrey Kaituko has urged universities to be proactive in producing qualified personel to serve Kenya’s blue economy and maritime sector.
Dr. Kaituko emphasized the government’s dedication to enhancing the sector’s contribution to the national economy. He underscored the importance of partnering with higher learning institutions to produce highly skilled seafarers capable of meeting the demands of the international market.
“As a State Department, we are committed to ensuring that this sector grows into a major contributor to the economy by providing job opportunities for the youth, while fostering innovation and skill development to meet the global maritime industry’s demands,” the PS stated.
He added that the State Department was focused on expediting and formalizing strategic collaborations with key countries, a move he described as one that “will open a wide range of opportunities for graduates in the marine sector.”
Dr. Kaituko spoke Thursday February 13, during a meeting with delegation from Jomo Kenyata University of Agriculture and Technology. The meeting focused on key issues within the marine sector, specifically the expansion of maritime infrastructure, and the advancement of maritime education and training.
Acting Principal College of Engineering and Technology (COETEC), Prof. Titus Kivaa who represented JKUAT’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi at the meeting highlighted JKUAT’s continuous curriculum development, strong industry partnerships, and hands-on learning opportunities as essential components in ensuring graduates are both employable and capable of making meaningful contributions to the workforce.
“Our Marine students undergo seaboard training, which provides them with key experiences that make them well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the maritime industry. This hands-on training ensures they gain practical knowledge in ship operations, safety protocols, and the realities of life at sea, preparing them for successful careers in marine engineering, navigation, and related fields,” Prof. Kivaa explained.
During the discussions, both parties explored opportunities for collaboration between JKUAT and the State Department, with an emphasis on research, innovation, and capacity building for the maritime industry.
The meeting was also attended by Mr. Julius Segera, Director of Shipping and Maritime; Dr. Jotham Munyallo, Chair of the Department of Marine Engineering; Dr. Christiaan Adenya, Director of the Directorate of Academic Quality Assurance (DAQA); and Mr. Yussuf Yassin, an officer in the State Department.
