Post by : Badri Ariffin

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, presided over a meeting of the Board of Trustees at the Sharjah Maritime Academy's headquarters in Khorfakkan on Thursday.

During the session, a significant gift was unveiled—a cutting-edge training ship equipped with modern technology and facilities. This vessel will facilitate hands-on maritime training, allowing students to acquire practical experience and elevate their professional skills.

His Highness lauded the swift advancements made by the academy, commending the leadership of Dr Hashim bin Sarhan Al Zaabi, the Chancellor. He remarked on the institution’s progress since inception and the obstacles it has adeptly surmounted.

The Ruler reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the academy's future endeavors, aimed at delivering premier education in maritime transport, navigation, port management, marine engineering, and supply chain management. He also acknowledged the strategic partners who have significantly contributed to the academy's ongoing growth and sustainability.

The Board reviewed critical agenda topics, which included plans for academic advancement, institutional partnerships, and performance assessments. A budget for the 2026–2027 academic year was also approved.

Four new academic programs received endorsement following initial accreditation from the Commission for Academic Accreditation at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The new offerings comprise:

• Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and Sustainable Marine Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Environment and Renewable Energy
• Master of Science in Intelligent Marine Systems and Artificial Intelligence
• Master of Science in Global Supply Chain Management

In collaboration with the Cypriot Maritime Administration, the Board approved an additional four professional maritime training programs aimed at assisting experienced mariners in advancing to higher-ranked roles, such as ship duty officer, chief officer, second engineer, and electrical technical officer.

This partnership is anticipated to enhance the academy's global reputation, broaden graduates' career options, and entice more international students.

A comprehensive report from Dr Hashim Al Zaabi highlighted the academy's academic, administrative, and research accomplishments over the past year.

This report confirmed the renewal of the institution's accreditation for four years from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research without any noted deficiencies. The expert review praised the academy’s facilities, academic excellence, regulatory adherence, and diverse faculty.

Several programs also earned international recognition. The Bachelor of Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Management received accreditation from the Logistics and Transportation Institute, while other programs secured recognition from the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.

Discussions also took place regarding the expansion of maritime training and consultancy services throughout the UAE and Arab nations. The academy is actively involved in offering specialized training for port and maritime entities in areas like pilotage, tugboat engineering and management, port security, ship traffic control, and supply chain management.

Furthermore, the academy's accreditation as a maritime training center in Liberia and Panama illustrates its rising international profile and commitment to high-caliber maritime education.

The academy has also successfully achieved compliance certification for the international quality standard ISO 9001:2015, bolstering its status as a globally recognized maritime education institution in alignment with International Maritime Organization standards.

The Board reviewed various reports and recommendations from the Academic Committee, Finance Committee, Compliance and Internal Audit Committee, and Financial Resources Development Committee before finalizing the necessary decisions.

Senior officials, academic leaders, and maritime experts from both the UAE and abroad attended the meeting.

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