The Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has pledged Ghana’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Regional Maritime University (RMU) and positioning it as a premier maritime training institution on the African continent.
Speaking during his acceptance speech as Chairman of the Board of Governors and Chancellor of the Regional Maritime University at the institution’s 35th Board of Governors Meeting and 20th Congregation, the Minister said Ghana considers the appointment both a privilege and a demonstration of confidence reposed in the country as host nation of the university.
Addressing ministers, board members, maritime industry stakeholders, management, staff, students, and distinguished guests, Hon. Nikpe expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the institution and assured member states of Ghana’s dedication to advancing maritime education and the blue economy.
“I am deeply humbled to accept this appointment as the Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Governance of the Regional Maritime University,” he stated.
The Transport Minister conveyed warm greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana while commending the outgoing leadership for laying a strong foundation for the university’s continued growth.
He specifically praised the outgoing Chairman and Chancellor, Honourable Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., as well as the Committee of Experts, for their dedication and stewardship over the past two years.
According to Hon. Nikpe, the university plays a strategic role in training seafarers, maritime administrators, engineers, logisticians, and other professionals critical to the growth of Africa’s maritime industry and blue economy.
“Our mandate is unique to train the seafarers, maritime administrators, engineers, logisticians, and all others involved in keeping the blue economy working and improving the maritime sector,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed Ghana’s resolve to continue supporting the vision and mission of RMU, emphasizing that the government would provide the leadership necessary to elevate the institution to greater heights.
“As host country of the university, Ghana will remain steadfast in our support for the vision and mission of RMU and will continue to provide the leadership required to move the university to the next level of achievement,” he noted.
Hon. Nikpe further pledged to work collaboratively with member states, university management, and key stakeholders to promote good governance, institutional growth, and financial sustainability.
He stressed the importance of building on the achievements of previous administrations to position RMU as a leading maritime institution in Africa capable of producing highly skilled professionals for the global maritime industry.
The Minister, however, acknowledged the challenges confronting the university, including infrastructure deficits, staff tenure concerns, and funding constraints.
“The challenges are real infrastructure gaps, staff tenure issues, and funding but we are confident as a government that we will work to resolve all these challenges and build this university into one of the best maritime training institutions,” he assured.
Hon. Nikpe expressed confidence that with the support of management, dedicated staff, and students, the university would overcome its current difficulties and continue to excel.
He also reiterated President Mahama’s belief that the maritime sector holds enormous opportunities for Africa’s youth and stressed the need for quality education to empower young people to contribute meaningfully to the blue economy.
“The President believes this university should become the focal point through which our future in the maritime sector will be transformed, enabling our youth to receive the needed education to contribute effectively to the blue economy,” he said.
The Transport Minister further assured all member countries that Ghana values education and would continue to collaborate closely with them to ensure the growth of RMU and the expansion of Africa’s maritime economy.
He commended past leaders and founding fathers of the university for their sacrifices and efforts in establishing and sustaining the institution over the years.
Hon. Nikpe also extended appreciation to the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) for its role in supporting Ghana to position the university as a regional center for maritime excellence.
Additionally, he praised the university’s management and staff for their dedication in training future leaders in the maritime sector.
“We believe wherever these students find themselves in the world of work, they will be the best among equals because of the quality of training they receive here,” he stated.
The Minister reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure and facilities at RMU to ensure students receive world-class maritime education and are adequately prepared for opportunities in the global job market.
“The people of Ghana accept this honour, and we pledge to work hard to make the university a premium university on our continent,” Hon. Nikpe declared.
By 1960news.com
