Agreement to localize maritime transport between King Abdulaziz University and the National Academy
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub, King Abdulaziz University and the National Maritime Academy signed a joint cooperation agreement, laying the foundation for a new phase of localizing the maritime transport industry and developing national cadres, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program.
The signing ceremony took place at the university headquarters, with Dr. Faisal Al-Saq, Dean of the College of Maritime Studies, representing the academic side, and Captain Turki Al-Shehri, Executive Director, representing the academy. This agreement comes in response to the growing need to unify efforts between educational institutions and specialized training providers to bridge the gap between academic outputs and the demands of the rapidly evolving job market.
Strategic dimensions of the maritime transport sector
This cooperation is of particular importance given the Kingdom's strategic geographic location overlooking two of the world's most vital waterways: the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. The maritime transport sector is a major artery of the national economy and a key enabler of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP). Therefore, this agreement is significant in reducing reliance on foreign expertise in this crucial sector and building a national system capable of efficiently managing and operating maritime fleets and ports.
The "Bridging" program: New horizons for students
The agreement's key provisions included the announcement of a feasibility study for launching the "Bridging" academic program, a significant step forward in maritime education. This program aims to open new horizons for diploma holders in various maritime disciplines, enabling them to pursue a bachelor's degree at King Abdulaziz University. This initiative will not only raise the academic level of those working in the sector but also open up leadership career paths that previously required advanced qualifications.
A research environment to protect the blue economy
The agreement was not limited to education; it extended to establishing a comprehensive, interactive environment focused on scientific research in the fields of maritime security and safety and environmental protection. This aspect aligns with global and local trends toward preserving the "blue economy" and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources, particularly in light of the mega-projects underway along the Kingdom's coasts. The two parties will work to exchange technical expertise and facilitate access for researchers and students to the latest knowledge resources and advanced curricula.
The areas of cooperation also included planning to organize a series of specialized conferences, seminars and workshops at the local and international levels, to exchange views on the latest practices and technologies in the maritime sector, which enhances the Kingdom’s presence in international maritime forums and confirms its leadership in this field.
