Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay commits to excellence at Regional Maritime University

The newly-inducted Chancellor of the Regional Maritime University (RMU), Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay, has pledged to enhance academic excellence and strengthen industry partnerships, thereby solidifying the university's position as a leader in maritime education.

Speaking at the 31st RMU Board of Governors (BoG) meeting held on Friday in Accra, the Chancellor, who also serves as the Chairman of the BoG, expressed his commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion while investing in learning equipment and infrastructure.

Mr. Turay, who is also Sierra Leone’s Minister for Transport and Aviation, assumed the role of Chancellor following a smooth handover and induction ceremony. He succeeded Mr. Ebrima Sillah of The Gambia, who held the position for the past two years.

"By fostering a culture of innovation and critical thinking, we will equip our students with the skills they need to succeed in the dynamic marine industry," he stated.

"We will promote an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported, and where diverse perspectives enrich our academic and social life on campus," he added.

Mr. Turay also commended his predecessor for serving diligently and promised to ensure that RMU retains its status as the premier maritime education and training institution within the sub-region.

"Let us continue to harness the spirit of unity and integration as we advance the course of this university," he urged.

The Deputy Minister for Transport, Mr. Frederick Obeng Adom, remarked that RMU has been strategically positioned to play a significant role in the sub-region by providing quality maritime education, enabling young men and women to take active roles in the maritime sector.

"It is necessary to set a clear path and take advantage of the opportunities abounding in the blue economy as we remain committed to the growth of RMU," he added.

As the headquarters and host of RMU, Ghana remains dedicated to positioning RMU as a world-class maritime training institution. In line with this, processes are well underway for a loan facility of over $140 million from the Korean Exim Bank for the modernization of RMU to be released.

The event also marked the commissioning of a new Registry Block, which houses the Business Development Center, Public Relations Unit, Quality Management Unit, a conference room, and a canteen.

The Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority, Counsellor Neto Narzar Lighe Sr., and the Secretary-General of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), Dr. Paul Adalikwu, also reaffirmed their commitment to the growth of RMU.