Dr. Eric Katana, the new Bandari Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer, has his cane well cut out for him as he seeks to transform the Academy into a center that will drive Kenya’s blue economy, the next frontier of economic growth.
On his long list of things to do, there is infrastructure development and modernization of the facilities. Although the academy has existing infrastructure that requires an upgrade, Katana said he will be lobbying for resources to upgrade it and develop other new ones, with the key being developing the master plan for BMA infrastructure development for 20 years. He will also establish state-of-the-art training facilities, including simulators, laboratories, and workshops, to provide a cutting-edge learning environment, which has limited BMA’s ability to create new jobs.
“As part of the big plan for the government, I am committed to onboarding all services offered at the academy through the online system to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. I will also enhance the legal and regulatory framework, and I am committed to enabling the academy to meet national and international standards,” Katana said.
The other key area the CEO has trained his eyes towards is enhancing skills to create industry knowledge and be adaptable to changing technological advancements. He said he will also invest in professional development for the teaching staff to ensure that they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in blue economy sectors.
“I will seek to develop partnerships and collaboration with the shipping industry, and development partners, to guarantee cadetship training by sea-time and recruitment through the provision of employment; launch marketing campaigns that highlight the institution’s role in advancing the blue economy, showcasing success stories and innovative projects,” Katana said, adding that he will also utilize media platforms to disseminate information about the institution’s initiatives and achievements in the blue economy; and leverage the alumni network to promote the institution’s reputation and create opportunities for collaboration and support.
The seasoned maritime administrator has demonstrated distinguished service in the sector. Dr. Katana holds a Bachelor of Science (Honors) Degree from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), a Master of Business Administration Degree from the University of Nairobi, a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration from JKUAT, and a Diploma in Business Management from the Kenya Institute of Management.
He has attended several short courses on maritime, transport, and logistics, both locally and internationally. Dr. Katana is a full member of IAME, a member of the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), the Institute of Economic Affairs-Kenya, and a Sector Training Committee member of the Transport, Storage, Communication, and Allied Agencies at the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).
Before this appointment, he served as the principal, of the Kenya School of Revenue Administration (KESRA)-Mombasa Campus, where he is credited with implementing several impacts and turnaround strategies for the institution.
One of the critical challenges facing Maritime Education and Training (MET), which Katana intends to tackle, is onboard training opportunities. The new CEO is pursuing MOUs with shipping lines to ensure cadets can secure sea time and employment on board sea-going vessels.
Another challenge is the lack of trainers. The new CEO said he is pursuing recruitment of competent staff, especially those handling technical training courses, and possessing the requisite skills, such as a certificate of competency and a certificate of proficiency. He will also lobby for resources to assist in implementing the activities in the strategic plan and subsidize training costs to attract more students for training through assistance from the Higher Education Loans Board.
“The Academy is in the process of identifying the sources of funding to purchase a training ship,” Dr. Katana said.
According to those close to him, Dr. Katana can set a clear vision for the institution and inspire staff and students to achieve the monumental goals he has set for BMA. He has proficiency in developing and implementing long-term strategic plans that align with industry trends and educational standards.
His training and working background have equipped him with the skills to have strong decision-making skills, particularly in ensuring the best outcomes for the institution and its stakeholders. He has also gained the capability to build, lead, and motivate a diverse team of educators, researchers, and administrative staff.
He has a deep understanding of the maritime industry, including current trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements, and he has a strong background in maritime research, including securing funding, overseeing projects, and publishing findings.
He has excellent oral and written communication skills to articulate the institution’s goals and achievements to various stakeholders and can collaborate with industry partners, regulatory bodies, and other educational institutions.
“I have skills in managing conflicts and fostering a positive and inclusive institutional culture. I also have knowledge of budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to ensure the institution’s financial health, and I have experience in developing and implementing policies that enhance the institution’s effectiveness and compliance,” Dr. Katana said, adding that this will streamline operations, improve administrative processes, and implement best practices in institutional management.
He is flexible enough to adapt to changing industry needs, technological advancements, and educational paradigms. He has strong problem-solving skills to address challenges and leverage opportunities for institutional growth, and he has high ethical standards and integrity in all professional activities.
Adhering to the highest standards of honesty and ethical behavior, Dr. Katana said, will help BMA grow and will be reinforced by being open and transparent in decision-making processes and communications. Another credential he holds dear is striving for excellence in all aspects of education, research, and operations.
Dr. Katana said he will also adhere to the promotion of a culture of continuous learning and improvement; taking responsibility for one’s actions and the outcomes of the institution; advocating for and practicing sustainable and environmentally responsible behaviors, and valuing and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the institution and the maritime community.
Other crucial factors include treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or position; fostering a collaborative environment where teamwork and mutual support are emphasized; building and maintaining strong partnerships with industry, government, and other educational institutions; encouraging innovative thinking; and embracing new technologies and methodologies.
Dr. Katana hopes to work closely with the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), the industry regulator. The Academy will keep a close working relationship with the regulator to ensure training programmes for Maritime Education and Training meet national and international standards.
“BMA is in the process of negotiating with international shipping lines for the provision of sea-time and employment opportunities. Currently, the Academy has signed the MOU with the City of Glasgow College, CMA & CGM Shipping Company, and recently the Korea Maritime Institute of Fisheries Technology for academic exchange programmes,” Dr. Katana said.
Kenya Port Authority will continue to send their employees for skills development in the areas of ports and logistics to improve efficiency and effectiveness in operations. Kenya Marine and Fisheries and Research Institute will continue sending their employees for skills development in the maritime sector, especially coxswain training, among others.
Other strategic players include the Kenya Coast Guard Service, which will be utilizing training facilities at BMA for safety and security, maritime domain awareness, and practical training for a ship in a box, among other areas. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime will be utilizing training facilities for skills in survival techniques, emergency response, and drill training.
BMA has already aligned curricula with competency-based training to ensure they correspond to the needs of the industry. It is also offering modular and short courses for the shipping industry through capacity building and skills development to prepare a pool of talents for the industry’s needs.
BMA is certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards as ISO 9001:2015 and recognized by the International Maritime Organization as an accredited center for Maritime Education and Training. It is also certified by the Kenya National Qualification Agency as an Issuing and Certifying Body (KNQA) and recognized by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA).
This article was published by the editorial team at FEAFFA. For any enquiries, contact us via Email: editorial@feaffa.com/ freightlogistics@feaffa.com / onionga@feaffa.com Tel: +254733780240
