A delegation from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), headed by the Dean of the School of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Material Engineering (SOMMME) and the Department of Mechanical Engineering, undertook a familiarization tour at the Kenya Navy.
During the visit, the JKUAT delegation led by the Dean Dr. Mutuku Muvengei met with the Commander of the Kenya Navy Major General Paul Otieno, to express their gratitude for the Kenya Navy and the Kenya Defence Forces’ (KDF) continued support.
They specifically acknowledged the valuable industrial attachment opportunities provided to students in the Marine Engineering degree programmes adding that the primary goal of the tour was to identify ways to deepen and expand the current partnership between the two institutions.
The deliberations focused on broadening their collaborative efforts in maritime education and training with key areas including the joint development of specialized technical and nautical courses, the facilitation of faculty exchange programmes, engagement in joint research and development projects, and the sharing of training resources such as facilities and equipment.
The tour also included a visit to the Kenya Naval Training College, where they received an introduction to the Full Mission Bridge Simulator (FMBS) where a demonstration illustrated the simulator’s capabilities in delivering scenario-based training. This training allows Kenya Navy personnel to hone their skills in navigation, command and control, ship handling, and tactical maneuvers.
The sophisticated tool provides personnel with crucial experience in a simulated environment before their deployment to real-world operations on Kenya Navy vessels. The simulator also allows trainees to practice responding to intricate maritime situations within a realistic yet safe environment.
The familiarization tour wrapped up with the delegation visiting the Fire Fighting and Damage Control (FF&DC) simulators, both essential training resources. The firefighting simulator equips naval personnel with specialized skills to effectively combat fires on ships and at shore installations while simultaneously providing trainees with the necessary skills to manage and contain damage that leads to water entering the vessels.
The visit proved to be a valuable opportunity for the JKUAT delegation to gain firsthand insight into the Kenya Navy’s training capabilities and identify concrete areas for future cooperation. The engagement promises to strengthen the existing relationship and create new avenues for collaboration in maritime-related education and training.
By Hellen Lunalo
