Prof. Orubu Chairs Press Briefing As Global Maritime Academy Agbowhiame Prepares To Mark 15th Years Anniversary /Graduation Ceremony
By Wilson Macaulay
All is set with arrangements in top
gear as the Global Maritime Academy Agbowhiame, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State prepares to celebrate the remarkable occasion of its 15th-year Milestone Anniversary intertwined in the joyous atmosphere of a Graduation Ceremony.
Poised to make waves in the maritime
industry, the Global Maritime Academy in commemoration of a decade and a half of excellence in maritime education and a promising journey ahead for the graduating students decided to organize a Press Conference to brief the press as a prelude to roll out the
details of how the main events lined up for the celebration would look like.
During the press briefing yesterday, 26th January 2024, at the Council Chamber, Professor Christopher Orubu, Chairman of Council of the Global Maritime Academy, alongside Dr. Mike Egbago, Rector, Mr. Dafe Ogunje JP, Registrar, and Mr. Ejiro Dennis Enakughoton, Proprietor, respectively announced the upcoming festivities to mark the institution’s 15th years of excellence and a momentous graduation ceremony.
Prof. Christopher Orubu, the Chairman of Council, stated that the Global Maritime Academy, renowned for its commitment to maritime education and training, is gearing up for a remarkable celebration scheduled to take place on a grand scale.
Details of the Press Statement Presented by Prof Christopher Orubu during the Press Conference made available to Daily independent Newspaper reads in part :
He said in his opening paragraph:
” l am delighted to announce two monumental events that will mark significant milestones in the history of Global Maritime Academy (GMA).
First, we are celebrating the 15th-year anniversary of GMA on the 31st of January at the PTI Conference Centre, Effurun. The activities will commence at 10 am. This momentous occasion will not only honor our rich history but also serve as a reflection of the dedication, innovation, and excellence that have defined GMA over the past 15 years.”
He added: ” Secondly , we proudly announce the Graduation and Passing Out Parade of the 2022 and 2023 sets of Graduands. This auspicious event will take place on the 2nd of February, 2024, at the GMA’s permanent site along Secretariat Road, Agbowhiame, Ughelli South LGA, Delta State. The ceremony will commence at 10 am, marking the beginning of a new chapter for our talented graduates.”
Going down the memory lane , Professor Christopher Orubu disclosed that the Global Maritime Academy (GMA) was established in 2009, received official recognition and approval from Delta State Government in 2010 and Federal Government through the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in 2012, adding that GMA was approved by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in 2018.”
He said: “Our Vision is to become one of the leading Maritime Academies in Africa while Our Mission is to develop world-class human resources and capabilities in the Maritime Industry to meet national developmental needs and global challenges through quality training, research, and knowledge dissemination.”
Prof. Christopher Orubu the GMA Academic boss explained that the Academy believes that research is the cornerstone of human development and progres, hence the Academy is investing in cutting-edge research initiatives that will not only shape the future of the maritime industry in Nigeria, but also contribute to solving global challenges faced by our interconnected world.
The erudite Academic Don hinted that GMA have strategic initiatives centred on creating a dynamic learning environment, embracing technological advancements, and fostering a culture of research and excellence through which we aim not just to meet, but to exceed the expectations of our students, industry partners, and the wider community..
Speaking further on the Approved Programmes by the National Board for Technical Education , Prof Orubu disclosed that GMA offers a diverse range of NBTE-approved courses that cater for various aspects of the maritime sector .
Continuing , Prof. Orubu said : ” The Courses include, National Diploma Programmes (ND) ,Computer Science,
Maritime Transport and Business Studies , National Innovation Diploma Programme (NID) ,Marine Engineering. Shipping Management,
Security Management and Technology.
Welding and Fabrication Technology.”
Other Courses on the list are,
Fundamentals of Marine Trade and Transportation, Shipping Practice and Management.Freight Forwarding and Supply Chain Management, Maritime Safety and Security Management, etc.
The Academic Chair emphasized in his
press statement that the Academic
programmes reflect GMA’s commitment to providing comprehensive education and training across different disciplines within the maritime industry, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded and specialized education to excel in their respective fields.
While shedding more light on Affiliations and Partnerships maintained by GMA, Prof Orubu said: “” l am glad to inform you that GMA is a Member, Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN),
Member, International Maritime Club (IMC), we are affiliated to
Aries International Maritime Research Institute, UAE ,The Institute of Transport Administration, Nigeria (IOTA). ,
Near East University, Cyprus ,
Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun , Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA amongst others.”
Prof Orubu who spoke extensively on available facilities at the Academy, pointed out that the Global Maritime Academy (GMA) is sited on a 41-acre campus, encompassing 165,921.113 square meters, featuring cutting-edge facilities like a computer laboratory , Engineering workshop, Welding and fabrication workshop which enhances hands-on learning, while a well-equipped library caters for cognitive academic needs. .
The respected Academic Scholar
also noted that the Academy have
a clinic which provides health services, complemented by a 24-hour internet access, all facilities Solar powered for night-time library use, and their qualified personnel backed by foreign partners, ensure a holistic educational environment..
He proudlly disclosed that Global Maritime Academy has successfully graduated a total number of Nine Hundred and Seven (907) Students across all departments of the institution
who are doing well as good ambassadors of the Academy.
Prof. Orubu who further briefed the press on the Progressive Academic trajectory of GMA said : ” I am pleased to inform you today on an exciting development in the journey of Global Maritime Academy. As the Chairman, I am thrilled to announce our institution’s intention to launch Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes in the coming academic session.This decision aligns with our steadfast commitment to providing holistic and advanced education in the maritime industry. We recognize the growing demand for skilled professionals in this dynamic sector, and introducing HND programmes as a strategic move to further empower our students with in-depth knowledge and practical expertise.”
He stressed with emphasis during the interactive session that the
Global Maritime Academy has consistently been a beacon of excellence in maritime education, and the introduction of HND programmes is a natural progression because the goal
of GMA is not only to meet the evolving needs of the industry but also to ensure that our graduates remain at the forefront of advancements, contributing significantly to the maritime landscape.
Prof Orubu affirmed that in the coming months, GMA will be working diligently to structure and implement the new Academic programmes, collaborating with industry experts and educational authorities to ensure that the highest standards are maintained with the aim of providing students with a seamless transition from their foundational studies to a more specialized and advanced learning, ultimately preparing them for successful careers in the maritime field.
He expressed optimism on GMA
saying : ” I am confident that this initiative will not only enhance the academic opportunities of Global Maritime Academy but will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders of the maritime industry. ”
While soliciting for the support of the media, Prof Orubu said : ” l am using this
window of opportunity to request for robust media reportage because
your continued support to GMA is invaluable as we embark on this exciting journey.”
Prof Orubu who made an open invitatiton to all stakeholders across board in his summation said: ” We invite the general public, all members of the GMA community, including alumni, faculty, staff, and students, to join us in these celebrations. Your presence will add to the significance of these events as we commemorate our achievements and look ahead to a future filled with continued success and growth.
Let us come together to make these occasions memorable one, he concluded .”
