Mombasa: A delegation from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), led by Dr. Mutuku Muvengei, Dean of the School of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Material Engineering, undertook a familiarization tour at the Kenya Navy. The visit aimed to express gratitude for the Kenya Defence Forces’ support and explore ways to deepen the partnership between the two entities.

According to Kenya News Agency, the delegation met with Major General Paul Otieno, Commander of the Kenya Navy, acknowledging the valuable industrial attachment opportunities provided to Marine Engineering students. The discussions centered on expanding collaborative efforts in maritime education and training. Key areas of focus included developing specialized technical and nautical courses, facilitating faculty exchanges, engaging in joint research projects, and sharing training resources.

The tour featured a visit to the Kenya Naval Training College, where the delegation was introduced to the Full Mission Bridge Simulator. This tool demonstrated its capability in delivering scenario-based training, enhancing personnel skills in navigation, command and control, ship handling, and tactical maneuvers. The simulator offers crucial experience in a controlled environment before personnel engage in real-world operations.

The tour concluded with a visit to the Fire Fighting and Damage Control simulators, essential for equipping naval personnel with firefighting skills and damage management techniques. These simulators provide training for containing incidents that may lead to vessel damage, thus ensuring preparedness for maritime challenges.

The familiarization tour offered the JKUAT delegation insight into the Kenya Navy’s training capabilities and highlighted potential areas for further cooperation. This engagement is expected to strengthen the existing relationship and foster new opportunities in maritime education and training collaboration.