Mount Kenya University (MKU) has strengthened Kenya’s maritime training capacity after commissioning a Sh30 million state-of-the-art ship bridge simulator at its Malindi Maritime Academy.
The facility is expected to enhance hands-on maritime training, reduce the cost of overseas instruction for Kenyan cadets and support the country’s growing focus on the Blue Economy.
Speaking during the commissioning, Malindi Maritime Academy Centre Director, John Njenga Muhia said the facility will significantly enhance competency-based training and improve the global competitiveness of Kenyan maritime graduates.
“This investment allows our trainees to gain practical experience using world-class technology. Our goal is to ensure they meet international maritime standards while training locally,” Muhia said.
He noted that the high-tech simulator replicates real-life ship bridge operations, enabling trainees to practice navigation, vessel handling, collision avoidance, safety management and emergency response in a controlled environment. Learners will also be exposed to varying sea conditions, traffic situations and weather patterns similar to those at sea.
The simulator is powered by advanced Wärtsilä navigational technology and mirrors equipment used on modern commercial vessels.
Muhia said instructors can create complex scenarios to build cadets’ competence, confidence and critical decision-making skills.
“Instructors will be able to create complex training scenarios, enabling cadets to build competence, confidence and critical decision-making skills required in real maritime operations,” he said.
Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Charles Ong’ondo said the simulator aligns with the national shift towards skills-based education.
“Such facilities are critical in ensuring learners acquire hands-on competencies that meet industry needs. We encourage institutions to continue investing in modern training infrastructure,” he said.
The university is now seeking recognition of the simulator by relevant regulatory and accreditation bodies, so that it can be fully integrated into certified maritime training programmes, even as it targets to expand its maritime programmes to meet both national and international demand.
The commissioning comes as the university strengthens global partnerships, including a Memorandum of Understanding signed last year with Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy to support curriculum development, internships and advanced training.
The MKU Maritime Academy in Malindi is strategically located along the Indian Ocean and supports shipping, port services and marine logistics.
By Muoki Charles.
