In line with its belief in the importance of empowering individuals by providing an integrated educational and practical environment, and as a reflection of national partnership between the educational and professional sectors in Kuwait, AU held a meeting with the Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) in the presence of the General Protectorate of the Coast Guard, which represents the flag authority of the State of Kuwait. The meeting aimed to explore the possibility of providing practical training opportunities for the university’s graduates aboard the KOTC’s vessels. This would offer students a unique and practical professional experience in maritime officer duties.
Discussions also focused on the delivery of essential basic marine competency courses required for seafarers, and the feasibility of offering them locally in Kuwait. These courses are critical for obtaining the Certificate of Competency (CoC), issued by the flag authority. The parties also coordinated on accelerating initiatives that support the development of the maritime sector. Notably, the General Directorate of the Coast Guard has taken swift and significant steps to accredit various maritime courses aimed at enhancing the qualifications of maritime professionals.
Participants in the meeting included Mr. Saqer Al Sharhan, Assistant to the President for Support Services at AU; Eng. Nizar Al Sultan and Captain Alan Kaziver from KOTC; Colonel Faisal Al Mubarak, Colonel Majed Al Shukri, Lieutenant Colonel Marine Engineer Yousef Al Haddad, and First Lieutenant Yousef Al Shatti from the Coast Guard; as well as Mr. Abdullah Shams Al Deen, Manager of Maritime Technical at AU, and Captain Liam Toner, Senior Manager of Maritime Operations and Quality.
The meeting concluded with a tour of the Maritime Studies facilities, where attendees reviewed the university’s preparedness to deliver the diploma program and marine competency training.
