The Minister of Transport and Aviation of Sierra Leone, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., was on Saturday, 26th June, commended and awarded a unique citation in acknowledgement of his outstanding leadership and for serving as Chancellor of the Regional Maritime University.
It was during the Regional Maritime University’s (RMU) 20th Congregation, held in Nungua, Accra, that the honour was given after completing his two-year term.
Authorities highly praised Ambassador Turay for his leadership, steadfast commitment to maritime education, and substantial aid to strengthening the university.
Noteworthy achievements, such as a considerable increase in student enrolment, financial stability, renewal of stakeholders' confidence, and the appointment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor, are among the accomplishments recorded during his tenure.
This recognition followed Ghana’s official assumption of the Regional Maritime University’s Chancellorship, with the country’s Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, taking over the leadership of the University's Board of Governors following Sierra Leone's successful completion of its mandate.
Turay expressed gratitude to the university community, member states, and stakeholders for their cooperation throughout his tenure. He called for continued unity and collaboration among member countries to advance maritime education, research, and professional training across the sub-region.
He reaffirmed Sierra Leone's commitment to supporting the Regional Maritime University and urged member states to continue investing in the institution to maintain its status as one of Africa's best institutions that connect countries through education.
The 20th Congregation of the Regional Maritime University saw the graduation of students from various maritime and allied programs, with graduates encouraged to uphold professionalism, innovation, and integrity as they contribute to the growth of the global maritime industry.
A total of 368 students, including 3 Sierra Leoneans, graduated with bachelor’s degrees and diplomas across various fields, 20 per cent earning first-class degrees.
The Regional Maritime University, headquartered in Nungua, Accra, is jointly owned by several West and Central African countries and remains a leading institution dedicated to developing skilled maritime professionals for the region and beyond.
