June 13, 2018
By Mohamed Massaquoi
Minister of Transport and Aviation, Hon. Kabineh KallonSierra Leone Transport and Aviation Minister has assured the Regional Maritime Board during the 20th meeting in Accra Ghana that the government of Sierra Leone will work very hard to revamp the maritime industry in the country, adding that the government under the New Direction policy was undertaking massive extension of berth at the Sierra Leone Ports Authority in Freetown.
Hon. Kabineh Kallon said Sierra Leone was extremely proud of its affiliation with the Regional Maritime University Board of Governors as the institution was a beacon of maritime studies and development that has performed remarkably over the years.
He said the institution should focus more on expanding its curriculum to better prepare its graduates to effectively tackle maritime related challenges such as piracy and the increase number of sea vessels that are rutting the sea parts at various countries.
‘’The issue of piracy must be treated seriously. The university is best for such studies to commence in order to be nurtured and to put into theatrical practices of our graduates. Also, not forgetting that our nationals must not be left behind in making use of the vast staffing and other opportunities in the international maritime organizations. Indeed, it is the responsibility of the university to provide positive challenges for its students to meet modern times,” he said.
He added that members should not forget that 90% of the words trade was done via shipping and that significant number was sure to grow as world trade grows.
“Our government is moving Sierra Leone in the New Direction and to achieve this, we have to do the right things for the people of Sierra Leone. My president in his address during the state opening of parliament emphasised on the need to revamp the maritime sector. As a member of this board, I began my tenure with complete faith and confidence in each and every one of you. I believe with hard work, dedication and network, we can make the university more relevant to changing times,” he concluded.