Tom Mboya University is set to offer ship construction classes after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Kenya Shipyard Limited to establish a centre of excellence for shipbuilding, maintenance and repairs.
The institution’s Vice Chancellor Charles Ochola said this initiative is a niche in the blue economy that the university had identified in order to explore opportunities in fisheries, water science and transport among others.
Ochola spoke at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay where he said that they have developed and submitted programs which are intended to support the Lake Victoria’s environment and modernize its economy to the Commission for University Education.
The vice chancellor said besides research and academics, university institutions should offer similar programs for individuals who are interested in acquiring artisan skills.
KSL Managing Director Major General Said Mohamed Farah said they will incorporate the latest technology in their training that will prepare trainees for certification and job opportunities in Kenya and beyond.
“The center is the medium for scholars to acquire topnotch shipbuilding skills and it will enhance innovation, capacity building, research and development in ship making,” he said.
Farah underscored the significance of the shipbuilding industry as a foundation for the blue economy and a key driver for maritime trade saying that it is KSL’s vision to become the leading catalyst in the industry.
The partnership will offer lessons to the fisher folk and other residents along the lake on modern vessel construction.
Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga said the partnership marked the beginning of a journey that will address accidents in the lake while being optimistic that the initiative will immensely support the blue economy.
“This collaboration aims to bring academia and industry together to create a skilled workforce for the blue economy and drive economic development in the county,” she said.
Wanga reiterated that the county has a ready market for water vessels due to the large number of fishermen saying her administration will support this initiative by providing land for testing of the assembled vessels.
“The land on the lakefront at Riwa Special Economic Zone will be used for the practical sessions by the university students and the KSL to test the assembled vessels,” Wanga said.
On the other hand, the Director for Research at the State Department of Higher Education and Research Dr Roseline Owuor encouraged partnerships between academia, industry and government agencies to ensure education institutions produced graduates who would meet the evolving needs for the workplace and private institutions.
By Sitna Omar
