Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University: Leading The Future Of Maritime Studies In Bangladesh

Rear Admiral Mohammad Musa

Vice-Chancellor

Maritime university plays a crucial role in shaping the maritime industry's future by promoting and creating an environment for higher maritime education with excellence. By integrating state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, employing competent faculty and staff, expanding the frontier of research-based knowledge, and adhering to international standards, this institution supports the emergence of new horizons in diverse fields, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet the dynamic challenges of the global maritime sector. A prime example of such an institution is Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University (BSMRMU).

BSMRMU stands as a beacon of specialized education in Bangladesh, uniquely dedicated to maritime affairs and subjects. As the nation's only maritime university, it offers special programs on maritime disciplines, preparing students to lead and innovate in the rapidly evolving maritime sector.

Overview & Academic Offerings

Established by an act of Parliament in 2013 and has been functioning since 2016, BSMRMU has quickly grown into a prime institution for maritime education in the country. “Our university offers a comprehensive range of programs, including five undergraduate honors programs and nine master’s programs. These programs cover diverse fields such as oceanography, naval architecture, ocean engineering, maritime science, marine engineering, marine biotechnology, marine fisheries, maritime law, and maritime business. Each program is designed to equip our students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, essential for thriving in the maritime industry", says Rear Admiral Mohammad Musa, the Vice-Chancellor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University.

The institute exerts a significant influence that transcends its campus, impacting the broader maritime education landscape in Bangladesh. All government marine and fisheries academies are affiliated with BSMRMU, the premier institution in Bangladesh dedicated to excellence in maritime education. It fosters the development of resourceful human resources equipped to meet the demands of the marine and fisheries industries. Consequently, students across the country receive a cohesive and comprehensive maritime education, fostering a unified framework that enhances the quality and relevance of maritime studies in Bangladesh. Through its leadership and academic excellence, BSMRMU plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the maritime industry, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in this vital sector.

With a maritime area of 118,813 square kilometres and a coastline of over 700 kilometres, which lies within the tropical zone between 21- 23° N and 89-93° E, the region is rich in resources and opportunities. The Territorial Waters and Maritime Zones Act of 1974, declared by the Father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s maritime sovereignty and development. Today, over 90 percent of trade is conducted via sea routes. The government's blue economy policy emphasizes maritime transportation, offshore energy, marine fisheries, marine biotechnology, and maritime tourism. BSMRMU leads this initiative, collaborating with international partners to enhance its educational offerings.

Preparing Students for Modern Challenges

BSMRMU offers a curriculum that equips students to navigate the complexities and diverse issues within the maritime sector, with a strong emphasis on practical training. At the same time, it actively contributes to the oceanographic sector by involving students in research collaborations with the Bangladesh Oceanography Research Institute and facilitating sea training programs. This hands-on approach ensures that students gain valuable insights and experience in real-world maritime environments. Besides Engineering students at BSMRMU collaborate with the shipbuilding and offshore industries to enhance their academic excellence and students specializing in Shipping Administration benefit from internships at ports and shipping companies, where they acquire firsthand experience in the operational and administrative aspects of maritime trade. In addition, it fosters entrepreneurship through its ‘Startup Blue’ program. This initiative encourages students to develop innovative business ideas and engage with industry leaders, promoting a culture of entrepreneurship within the maritime sector. ‘Startup Blue’ not only supports the creation of new enterprises but also aids in the expansion of existing maritime businesses, contributing to the overall growth of the maritime industry in Bangladesh.

The university boasts a diverse and experienced faculty, including experts from various maritime fields. Professors from leading institutions such as the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and international academics from countries like India, UK and the Netherlands bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights. This blend of academic expertise and industry experience ensures that students receive a well-rounded education. Also, research is a vital component of BSMRMU’s academic agenda. The university undertakes numerous research projects annually, addressing critical issues such as marine pollution control, ship recycling, and maritime transportation. These research efforts not only advance academic knowledge but also contribute to the development of practical solutions for the maritime industry.

Global Opportunities & Recognition

BSMRMU facilitates international learning experiences through partnerships with global institutions. Students have opportunities to engage in international study programs and joint research projects with universities such as Yokohama City University in Japan and the National Institute of Oceanography in India. These collaborations enhance students' global perspectives and prepare them for careers in the international maritime industry. In addition, they place a strong emphasis on employability and entrepreneurial skills. The university offers internships and placement opportunities with leading maritime organizations, ensuring that students gain valuable industry experience. Scholarships and financial aid options are available to support students from diverse backgrounds, further enhancing the university’s accessibility and appeal.

Most importantly, the company’s commitment to maritime excellence has earned it numerous awards, and recognitions both at national and global level. The university’s collaborations with 15 international universities underscore its global reputation. Recent agreements with institutions in Japan and Sweden highlight BSMRMU’s ongoing efforts to expand its academic and research horizons.

Looking ahead, BSMRMU aims to expand its permanent campus in the largest port city, Chattogram. Central to this expansion are plans to establish the Institute of Disaster Management and the Institute of Renewable Energy. The Institute of Disaster Management will focus on maritime disaster management, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to handle emergencies and mitigate risks in maritime environments. Meanwhile, the Institute of Renewable Energy will emphasize offshore renewable energy, fostering innovation and sustainable practices in the maritime sector. By focusing on disaster management and renewable energy, it will play a pivotal role in enhancing safety, sustainability, and resilience in maritime operations. This expansion will further solidify the university’s position as a leading institution in maritime education and research, driving progress and development in Bangladesh's maritime sector.

In conclusion, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University stands as a pillar of maritime education in Bangladesh. With its specialized programs, promoting business entrepreneurship, and global partnerships, BSMRMU is preparing the next generation of maritime leaders and professionals. The university’s contributions to the blue economy and its role in shaping the future of maritime affairs in Bangladesh are both significant and commendable. BSMRMU continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of maritime education and research. The university's commitment to developing skilled human resources and promoting innovation will significantly contribute to the maritime sector's advancement. Our standard maritime curriculum, practical training, inshore and offshore industry collaborations, ensure our graduates are well-prepared to meet the upcoming maritime sector challenges. By fostering a culture of research and entrepreneurship, the university will continue to drive progress and innovation, cementing its role as a pivotal institution in shaping the future of maritime education in Bangladesh.