Seafarers to act as envoys in expanding shipping markets: Shipping minister

Seafarers will act as envoys in creating new markets for Bangladesh's shipping sector, Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam said today (18 April).

The minister urged seafarers to perform their duties with honesty, dedication and sincerity on ocean-going vessels.

"They will enhance the country's image and contribute to remittance earnings as representatives of Bangladesh," he said while speaking as chief guest at the 28th pre-sea ratings passing-out ceremony of the National Maritime Institute (NMI) in Chattogram.

The minister said education is not limited to textbooks but includes knowledge, discipline, and physical and mental development.

He added that seafarers would use the practical knowledge gained at the National Maritime Institute to establish themselves as professionals in ship operations, vessel management and cargo transport.

"Through their sincere service, Bangladesh will move forward in international maritime transport and compete with developed countries," he said.

He praised the quality of NMI training, noting that its discipline, practical approach and structured training have earned recognition from international maritime bodies and the European Union's maritime safety agency.

"The cadets of NMI are assets for their families, the country and the nation," he added.

Referring to the sector's development, the minister said the government led by Khaleda Zia approved the "Development of Seamen's Training School" project at Ecnec in 1992 to ensure quality participation in the maritime sector.

"This project, implemented between 1993 and 1995, led to the establishment of today's internationally standard institution," he said.

He said that since the training began, around 4,500 seafarers have successfully completed courses at the institute.

"Of them, about 4,000 are now working on local and foreign vessels, contributing to the country's economy," he added.

He further said the current government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is giving special importance to job creation in the maritime sector and other promising areas.

"The government is committed to providing all necessary support wherever needed," he said.

At the start of the programme, the minister inspected a parade. He later awarded crests and certificates to several new seafarers for their performance in different trades.

Rabby Islam Kanan from the engine department received a gold medal for overall excellence. In the second session, the minister handed over awards provided by shipping companies and financial institutions to top-performing seafarers.