This accolade affirms the Academy’s efforts towards reinforcing maritime education and training and qualify a generation of competent professionals

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport Branch in Sharjah (AASTS) was awarded for its “Distinctive Contribution to Innovation in Maritime Education” at the 14^th edition of the Shiptek International Awards 2021, held in Dubai, on June 7, 2021. The award was received by Dr. Ismail Abdel Ghaffar Ismail Farag, President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport in the presence of delegates from the Academy.

The Shiptek International Maritime Awards is one of the most prestigious accolades in the maritime, offshore and oil and gas industries. The 14^th edition witnessed the participation of key industry players who have contributed significantly to the growth of the sector in the UAE and the Middle East.

Playing an integral role

With its numerous unique academic offerings and its mission of shaping young minds of the nation, AASTS has played a vital role in reinforcing maritime education and training in the Middle East. The Academy has been a flagbearer in terms of infusing Emirati talent into the workforce, fulfilling the goals of the wise leadership of the nation and enhancing the UAE’s status as a leading maritime hub worldwide.

H.E. Dr. Ismail Abdel Ghaffar Ismail Farag, President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport said: “As an institution associated with the League of Arab States, we are mandated to build partnerships that develop the economic capabilities of all Arab countries and beyond, while also bringing about innovations in the field of maritime education for the generations to come. Our relationship with the UAE is special. Since our inception in Sharjah, we have received endless support from the leaders and decision-makers of the country to reinforce maritime education and training in the country and the region. Providing education that is on par with international standards, at AASTS, it is our mission to ensure the growth of this thriving sector in the UAE.”

Offering holistic education

Through their intensive teaching approach and progressive strategies, AASTS has been at the forefront when it comes to discussing and developing strategies in order to enhance the economic development of the maritime sector by utilising the potential of fresh talent. The Academy has been successfully training personnel who will add value to the industry. Additionally, through its numerous collaborations with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Academy has showcased its commitment to ensuring the advancement of the maritime sector

Dr. Capt. Ahmed Youssef, Associate Dean, College of Maritime Transport and Technology, AASTS said: “The UAE’s wise leadership attaches great importance to quality education and training. Therefore, being one of the leading maritime institutions worldwide, we take ownership of qualifying future leaders. To achieve this goal, we are constantly improvising our teaching techniques by embracing technology and educating our students about the importance of digitalisation considering the fast-paced world we live in. Apart from academics, as an institution, we also give priority to our students physical and mental well-being. Through our specialised training courses, we work extensively on increasing students’ knowledge base, thus increasing their chances of securing leading positions with key organisations in the industry in the future. We have also designed specialised training programmes in various maritime administrative and technical areas that will employ our state-of-the-art facilities, and have adopted innovative education tools enabled with augmented and virtual reality technologies, which reflects our proactive approach in using modern innovations and creativity in the field of maritime education.”

Throughout the pandemic, the Academy tackled the challenges of the new world by deploying hybrid learning methods so students can continue their education process in a seamless way. Furthermore, AASTS has been spearheading the women empowerment movement in the sector by promoting gender equity in the classroom. With enrolled female students accounting for more than 43 per cent of the total number of students, the Academy has the highest percentage of females among maritime academies in the Middle East and North Africa. With state-of-the-art facilities, new improved technologies and strategic partnerships with government entities, the Academy looks forward to empowering its students with the necessary skill to excel in the field.