The Rector of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron,Joshua Okpo; has disclosed that only about 2,500 cadets will be invited for interview out of the 9000 cadets that wrote the entrance examination recently.
According to him, the reason for the reduction is to enable the academy cater for only applicants its facility can accommodate. Okpo, who spoke with journalists in Lagos recently, said the facilities in the academy are being over-stretched.
Besides, he noted that both the International Maritime Organisation, (lMO) and manufacturers of the new simulators expected to be delivered to the academy have advised that each class be limited to a certain number of cadets in line with international practice and standard.
Okpo, however, noted that with more funding under the President Goodluck Jonathan ‘s administration, more departments would be established next year in addition to construction of more classrooms and hostels.
Once this is done the rector explained that the academy would admit more cadets, adding that the Nation’s premier maritime academy is pursuing IMO ‘s campaign for people to go to sea by building a career in the international sea trade.
According to him a training ship and improved modern facilities or equipment are key to maritime training and education for Nigeria, Africa third largest supplier of seafarers.
Source: The Guardian Nigeria
