The Minister for Transport and newly appointed Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Regional Maritime University (RMU), Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has pledged Ghana’s commitment to repositioning the institution as a globally competitive maritime training hub capable of producing world-class professionals for the evolving blue economy.
Speaking at the university’s 20th Congregation Ceremony in Accra, the Transport Minister described the institution as a shining example of what African countries can achieve through regional cooperation and a shared vision for development.
Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Chancellor / Chairman of the Board of Governors , RMU
He said RMU has, over the decades, remained at the forefront of maritime capacity building, producing professionals who continue to make significant contributions across the global maritime industry.
Hon. Nikpe expressed gratitude to the university’s governing board for his selection as the new Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Governors, assuring the university community that the responsibility would be approached with dedication and purpose.
“We take up this mantle not merely as a title but as a pledge to steer this institution toward greater heights of academic excellence, technological innovation, and global competitiveness,” he stated.
According to him, the government under President John Dramani Mahama recognizes the maritime sector as a major driver of economic transformation and job creation, especially within the framework of Ghana’s proposed 24-hour economy policy and modern supply chain integration.
The Minister noted that the global maritime industry is currently undergoing rapid changes driven by automation, digitalization, and the growing push toward environmentally sustainable shipping practices.
He stressed that the university must position itself ahead of these changes by modernizing its training systems and strengthening its research and technological capabilities.
Under his stewardship, the minister assured, the Ministry of Transport would aggressively pursue strategic partnerships aimed at bringing advanced marine engineering technologies, modern training infrastructure, and sustainable research funding to the university.
Hon. Nikpe also commended the management and faculty of the university for their resilience and dedication in training maritime professionals despite the rapidly changing global shipping environment.
He announced that a total of 417 students graduated during the ceremony, comprising 83 master’s degree holders, 242 Bachelor of Science graduates, and 91 diploma recipients across disciplines including Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nautical Science, Port and Shipping Administration, Computer Engineering, and International Shipping Logistics.
Congratulating the graduates on behalf of President Mahama and the government, the Minister urged them to uphold competence, integrity, and resilience as core professional values throughout their careers.
“Ambition gets you in, but competence and technical skills will keep you on the job,” he advised.
He further encouraged the graduates to protect their professional reputations and remain steadfast in difficult situations, likening the challenges of life and work in the maritime sector to unpredictable conditions at sea.
“The sea is unpredictable. When rough waters come, rely on your training, adjust your sails, and push ahead,” he charged.
The Minister also praised parents and guardians for the sacrifices made in supporting the students through their academic journey, describing the graduates as future ambassadors of maritime excellence for the six member states of the university.
He reiterated Ghana’s determination to improve infrastructure and facilities at the university to elevate its status as a globally recognized maritime institution.
Hon. Nikpe disclosed that discussions held among ministers and board members during the event had produced far-reaching decisions aimed at strengthening the university’s position within the international maritime sector.
He expressed confidence that with the collective support of member states and the wider maritime community, the RMU would continue to produce highly skilled professionals capable of driving Africa’s blue economy agenda.
Meanwhile, the acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jnr., described the 20th Congregation as a historic milestone for the institution.
He revealed that 386 students graduated with bachelor’s degrees and diplomas, while 82 students received master’s degrees.
Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jnr., Ag. Vice Chancellor, RMU
According to him, 20 percent of the undergraduate students graduated with first-class honours, while 51 percent obtained second-class upper division.
Dr. Brooks disclosed that the university has received accreditation for a new Bachelor of Science programme in Oceanographic and Marine Technology, expected to commence during the 2026/2027 academic year.
He further announced the approval of new postgraduate programmes in Blue Economy Studies, including MA Blue Economy, MSc Blue Economy, and MPhil Blue Economy programmes, which are expected to begin in August this year.
The acting Vice Chancellor said the university’s Marine Safety and Security Centre has also introduced a four-week online certificate programme in Blue Economy Studies targeted at professionals within the maritime and allied industries.
According to him, the new programmes are intended not only to expand access to maritime education but also to equip seafarers with alternative professional opportunities ashore after active sailing careers.
Dr. Brooks encouraged graduates to use the knowledge acquired from the university to positively impact their communities and uphold the values of honesty, discipline, and hard work.
“You have an obligation to lead the crusade for progressive socio-economic enhancement of the living standards of the citizenry,” he told the graduates.
He also urged them to remain connected to their alma mater and contribute to its continued growth and development.
“Once in RMU, always with RMU,” he added.
By 1960news.com
