CS Migos calls for job-ready maritime training as MKU showcases innovation at Blue Economy Summit

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Kenya’s maritime sector through investment in training, infrastructure and youth empowerment.

Speaking at the Blue Economy Innovation and Investment Summit 2025 in Mombasa, CS Migos announced that training will soon begin at the new Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, Kwale Campus. He said the facility will provide a state-of-the-art learning environment tailored to the unique needs of maritime training.

“This college will offer comprehensive programs in marine transport, port logistics, and onboard operations, equipping our youth with the skills and competencies needed to excel in the industry,” he said.

The CS described the summit as more than an exhibition, calling it a strategic platform for dialogue and aligning training with industry needs. 

“Together, we can ensure our graduates are job-ready and able to meaningfully contribute to the maritime industry’s growth,” he noted, adding that Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in maritime innovation across Africa.

The three-day summit, held from September 24–26 at PrideInn Paradise Hotel, brought together ambassadors, principal secretaries, CEOs, senior policymakers and international partners under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.” It spotlighted opportunities in ocean technology, sustainable fisheries, renewable energy, eco-tourism, waste management and governance.

Mount Kenya University (MKU) Maritime Academy played a prominent role at the event, hosting EU Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Henriette Geiger, at its exhibition stand. The summit also marked the first anniversary of MKU Maritime Academy’s accreditation by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).

Since its inception, the academy has expanded from offering its flagship Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Basic Training to more than 12 specialised programs, boosting graduates’ global job competitiveness.

Located in Malindi, MKU Maritime Academy has aligned itself with government priorities in maritime education, safety, and labour, helping position Kenya as a player in the global blue economy.

KMA Chairman Ahmed Kolosh highlighted recent milestones, including the acquisition of five modern search-and-rescue vessels through the EU-funded Go Blue Project. He also noted that Kenya has developed a National Action Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships, with support from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

The summit concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating innovation in the sector, where Best Blue Tech Innovation Startup went to Junichi Taniguchi of Japan.

In his closing remarks, CS Migos urged stakeholders to work together to chart a new course for Kenya’s maritime sector, “one characterised by excellence, inclusivity and sustainable progress.”