The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) Vice Chancellor Prof Laila Abubakar has urged youths to seize vast opportunities that exist in the blue economy.
Prof Laila noted that the sector remains largely unexplored, and recent government policies to tap its potential portend well for the youths in terms of career opportunities that exist in a wide range.
The VC was speaking during the 1st Annual Youth Maritime and Shipping Symposium held by TUM in collaboration with the Shipping and Transport College of East Africa (STC-EA).
The event brought together distinguished speakers, industry leaders, and enthusiastic youths committed to exploring opportunities in Kenya’s Blue Economy.
The TUM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Laila Abubakar, in her opening remarks, emphasized the importance of youth participation in maritime studies.
"I urge all of us to seize these opportunities — in education, training, innovation, and investment — so that we can fully participate in and benefit from the growth of the Blue Economy," she said.
Captain Talib Mohamed, Director of the Institute of Maritime and Seafaring Studies, spoke on behalf of Captain Abdile, President of AMPK and former Harbour Master at KPA. He highlighted the range of programmes offered by TUM, noting that they provide a clear pathway for career growth.
Captain Talib said: “You can start small, build your skills, and gradually advance toward meaningful employment. Opportunities abound — from modern fishing methods and navigation to marine operations".
Ms Fatma Hussein, Director at STC-EA, shared insights on the college’s mission and programmes which aims to bridge the skills gap in maritime, shipping, transport, and the broader Blue Economy sector. “We are strategically located at the heart of East Africa’s maritime corridors,” she said.
The symposium also featured addresses from key industry and government leaders. Mr Ibrahim Khamis, CECM Economy, Mombasa County, encouraged youth to explore opportunities in sea-time, ecological sustainability, wealth creation, and inclusion of marginal groups.
Mr Abud Jamal of KNCCI shared insights on entrepreneurship, structural engagements, and exposing youth to innovation competitions like hackathons.
The event included a plenary session and a book launch, reinforcing the importance of knowledge sharing and mentorship in maritime careers.
In her closing remarks, Prof Laila Abubakar encouraged the youth to think beyond traditional careers. “Look at what others are doing globally — export of crabs and lobsters, aquaculture, seaweed farming. Value addition is possible, and you can be part of it. There is space for each one of you. Stop focusing only on white-collar jobs.
"Explore the maritime sector and the opportunities that have not yet been saturated.”
The symposium provided a platform for young people to engage with maritime experts, discover emerging opportunities, and strategize for careers in the Blue Economy, reaffirming TUM’s commitment to shaping Kenya’s next generation of maritime professionals.
