RMU seeks govt, private sector support to meet demand for MET
The Acting Vice Chancellor of the Regional Maritime University (RMU), Dr Jethro W. Brooks Jr, has called for both government and private sector support to assist the university meet the increasing demand for Maritime Education and Training (MET) within the sub-region and beyond.
“MET is gaining momentum among the public due to the promising employment opportunities it could offer graduates,” Dr Brooks Jr said.
He stressed the need for investment in infrastructure to accommodate the growing interest and enrollment in maritime programmes.
Speaking at the university’s 19th Congregation ceremony held in Accra on Saturday, Dr Brooks Jr. noted a significant increase in student admissions for the 2024/2025 academic year, particularly among female students enrolling in the sea-going programme.
“Female enrollment in the sea-going programme increased to 99, compared to 35 in the 2023/2024 academic year. Overall, the cadet regiment has risen from 248 to 480,” he stated.
In light of this, he announced that the university would seek support from individuals, organisations and especially stakeholders in the maritime industry to assist in the construction of new classrooms and hostels to accommodate the steadily growing student population.
“Additionally, the Board has approved that the university may enter into agreements with estate developers willing to construct hostels on a build-operate-transfer, build-and-jointly-operate, or any other mutually beneficial arrangement,” he added.
Dr Brooks Jr. also commended the government of Liberia for constructing a two-storey hostel for the university and the government of Sierra Leone for funding the virtual classroom project.
A total of 372 students graduated with Master’s degrees, Bachelor’s degrees and diplomas in various fields. Of these, 66 received Master’s degrees, 231 earned Bachelor’s degrees and 75 were awarded diplomas.
Awards were presented to outstanding students, with the Overall Best Postgraduate Student Award going to Fugah Hope Kwame.
University staff were also recognised for their exceptional dedication. Mr Prosper Mawusi and Mr Isaac Kofi Entsie were named Employees of the Year (Senior Staff – Non-Teaching), while the Vice Chancellor’s Award was presented to Mr Ebenezer Abban.
BY TIMES REPORTER
