The Regional Maritime University (RMU), in partnership with DNV Benmarine Services (BmS), on Wednesday, April 16, launched the DNV & RMU Training Programmes for industry stakeholders as part of efforts to enhance local expertise in the maritime sector.
Dignitaries at the launching of the training programme
The initiative will introduce specialized trainings in key areas such as maritime operations, safety, risk and reliability, tailored to meet the evolving demands of the maritime industry.
The launch brought together dignitaries from RMU and DNV BmS, along with representatives from industry stakeholders including the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Petroleum Commission, and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA).
In his welcome address, the Acting Vice Chancellor of RMU, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr., described the training programme as a significant milestone in their shared efforts to strengthen and to innovate within the maritime and offshore industries, not only in Ghana but across the wider sub-region and the African continent.
Dr Jethro W. Brooks Jr giving his key note address
He noted that the training programme, facilitated by DNV, would lay the foundation for a broader collaboration that would culminate in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions.
“This MoU will focus on research, innovation and development, specifically targeting the local manufacturing of welding electrodes to meet international industry standards—an ambitious and transformative initiative,” he stated.
“Through the expertise of RMU’s Marine Engineering Department, we will lead the research efforts necessary for this initiative, applying academic rigor and practical knowledge to solve real-world industrial challenges,” he added.
Dr. Brooks emphasised that the partnership between RMU and DNV embodied the future of innovation, one driven not in isolation, but through synergistic collaboration that would harness the strengths of both academia and industry.
A section of dignitaries at the event
He further highlighted RMU’s pride to be part of this forward-looking alliance, which aligned with the university’s broader strategic vision to promote sustainability, deepen international collaboration and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of maritime education and practice across Africa.
In her part, DNV Regional Manager, Mr. Ian Edward, noted that Ghana holds a unique and strategic position in Africa’s maritime landscape, with immense potential across the region.
He emphasised that the partnership with RMU was crucial for the future, as it aimed to equip maritime professionals with enhanced skills for continued growth and innovation in the sector.
Cross-section of guests at the launching of the training programme
Regional Maritime Academy Manager for the Middle East and Africa, Ms. Michelle Maria Kurian and Managing Director of DNV BmS, Mr. Frederick Asamoah, also expressed strong enthusiasm for the collaboration, particularly in the areas of academic and industrial research, as well as knowledge sharing to address the challenges facing the maritime industry.
Some industry partners
Additional presentations were made by the Deputy Managing Director of DNV BmS, Mr. Bernard Lomotey Agbloe and Business Controller, Ms. Mary Owusu Ewusi.