Prime Highlights

• Dr Al Wahedi said aligning academic excellence with industry needs will shape the next generation of maritime leaders.
• Prof Ó Catháin said the MoU supports Bahrain Polytechnic’s strategic focus on innovation and student workforce readiness.

Key Facts

• Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy is a specialist institution focused on maritime education, training, and applied research in the UAE.
• The MoU covers joint training programmes, applied research, cadetship placements, and knowledge exchange in emerging technologies.

Background

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and the Bahrain Polytechnic with the intention of increasing cooperation in the fields of education, training, and research, in the maritime, engineering, and technology disciplines.

The signing took place between Dr Yasser Al Wahedi, the President of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, the CEO of Bahrain Polytechnic. The two officials were accompanied by senior members from both organizations.

The terms of the memorandum cover many activities. There will be cooperation in the development and delivery of training courses, train-the-trainer programs, workshops, lectures, and conferences. Bahrain Polytechnic students and graduates will also benefit from internship and cadetship programs as part of the collaboration.

Beyond training, the agreement covers applied research in areas including marine engineering, maritime security, and logistics technology. Both sides will exchange knowledge and expertise in technical fields and develop advanced programmes in emerging technologies, with the aim of closing the gap between academic learning and real industry needs.

Dr Al Wahedi said the partnership reflects Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy’s commitment to applied education and regional collaboration. He said aligning academic excellence with industry needs will help shape the next generation of maritime and technology leaders.

The MoU is a strategic step that supports Bahrain Polytechnic’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, according to Prof Catháin. His strategy, he said, is geared towards building partnerships, advocating for applied education and equipping the students for employment through practical exposure. He further stated that the partnership is beneficial to the organization as it encourages innovation.