The Registrar and chief administrator (if not acting rector) of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, MAN, Oron. Mr. Mkpandiok Ante has reiterated that the Academy has the structures and facilities required by international regulatory institutions and organizations.

Speaking at the just concluded All Nigerian Maritime Journalists Retreat in Lagos, the Registrar, speaking with vigour, passion and infectious optimism told participants that MAN Oron has training equipment which has enabled the Academy to train men and women that continue to excel within and outside the shores of Nigeria.

In his words “We have as at today in the Academy, a functional 270 Degrees Advanced Ship-Handling Simulator (Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator) and 360 Degrees Full Mission Bridge Simulator. The Cadets Refectory has been expanded to accommodate over a 1,000 cadets at the same time”

Admitting that the Academy has witnessed increased demand for admission which has stretched its facilities, Mkpandiok said management is prepared as Hostel facilities for both male and female cadets are being expanded to match the increasing demand for trainings in the Academy.

Asked how digital MAN has gone in its academic services/trainings, the Registrar said “Virtually all aspects of operations have been computerized. The Academy’s Library has been upgraded following the installation of Library Information Systems. As we speak, the admission processes of the Academy are done online by intending Cadets and Students. Fees are also paid online”.

On how the Academy is coping with attracting and keeping lecturers, Mr. Mkpandiok explained

“As it is well known, it costs very much to train a maritime professional; it costs even more to develop a qualified maritime instructor. In view of the comparatively low salary packages in the Academy compared to what is offered in the maritime and Oil and Gas industries located near the Academy, the institution continues to suffer from the syndrome of inability to attract-and- retain sufficient number of qualified professionals as instructors as the Oil and Gas sector continues to poach or lure them away with mouth-watering offers”

The Registrar therefor appealed to all maritime stakeholders and indeed the government to continue to support the Academy as it strives to fulfil its statutory mandate in the country.