Sheikh Sultan Celebrates Sharjah Maritime Academy Graduation

Photo: WAM

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah and President of Sharjah Maritime Academy, attended the graduation ceremony for the Academy’s second batch of students on Thursday morning. The ceremony took place at the academy’s theatre in Khorfakkan and celebrated the achievements of 23 male and female graduates.

In his speech, Sheikh Sultan congratulated the graduates and their families, expressing pride in both the students and their parents. He acknowledged the tough nature of maritime training and praised the graduates for gaining knowledge through real-world experiences at sea. He said, “We placed them on ships, facing hard work and danger, yet they lived up to the trust we placed in them.”

Sheikh Sultan also praised the students for completing their practical training without complaints and described it as a source of personal motivation. He mentioned their resilience, stating, “While many fear the sound of waves, these young men and women bravely endured the sea.”

He emphasised that the success of the Sharjah Maritime Academy is the result of the combined efforts of families and faculty members. He also shared that postgraduate programmes, including master's and Ph.D. degrees, will soon be introduced at the academy. He highlighted the academy’s growing global reputation, with its certifications now recognised by over ten international institutions.

“Our doors are open to everyone—whether from the East, the West, or Africa,” Sheikh Sultan said, adding that this recognition boosts the reputation of Khorfakkan, Kalba, and Dibba Al Hisn.

Sheikh Sultan concluded by reaffirming Sharjah’s deep commitment to science and education, stating, “This advancement in standards is one of life’s greatest achievements.”

The ceremony began with the UAE national anthem, followed by a Quran recitation and the arrival of the graduates.

Dr Hashem Abdullah bin Sarhan Al Zaabi, Director of Sharjah Maritime Academy, also addressed the gathering, congratulating Sheikh Sultan on the Academy’s progress. He described the event as a milestone in the journey that Sheikh Sultan has guided with his vision and support for maritime education.

Dr Al Zaabi praised the students’ hard work and highlighted Sheikh Sultan’s role in shaping their development and boosting their confidence. He also mentioned the academy’s commitment to preparing qualified professionals for the maritime and logistics sectors.

Graduate Taif Al Raisi spoke on behalf of her peers, expressing gratitude to Sheikh Sultan for his unwavering support for education and to the professors for their guidance. She also thanked the graduates' families and congratulated her fellow students on their success.

Sheikh Sultan then presented graduation certificates to the 23 students who completed their bachelor's degrees in marine engineering technology and maritime transport. He wished them continued success.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs, and Free Zones Authority, and Sheikh Saeed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Head of the Ruler’s Office in Khorfakkan, along with senior officials and the graduates’ families.