Sharjah: Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sharaf Group, marking a strategic step towards strengthening maritime education, industry-led training, and sustainable career pathways for future professionals in the UAE. The MoU was signed by Dr. Hashim Abdullah Bin Sarhan AlZaabi, Chancellor of Sharjah Maritime Academy, and Sharafuddin Alsayed Mohd H S M Yousif Sharaf, Vice-Chairman of Sharaf Group, reflecting both parties' shared commitment to bridging academic learning with practical industry experience.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Zaabi commented on the partnership, stating that the collaboration aims to align academic excellence with real-world industry requirements. The initiative is designed to equip students with the necessary skills, competencies, and professional exposure required to contribute effectively to the UAE's growing maritime sector.
Sharaf emphasized the importance of the MoU, highlighting Sharaf Group's long-term commitment to developing Emirati talent and strengthening national capabilities within the maritime and shipping sector. The partnership aims to combine world-class maritime education with real employment opportunities, creating a sustainable pipeline that empowers Emiratis to lead and shape the future of the industry.
Under the agreement, Sharaf Group will offer sea-going cadetship training opportunities for students enrolled in SMA's Marine Technology and Marine Engineering Technology programmes. Additionally, shore-based internship opportunities will be provided across areas such as maritime logistics, port operations, supply chain management, and marine services. The partnership will also support graduate employment by informing the Academy of relevant vacancies and considering qualified SMA graduates in line with the Group's recruitment policies.
The collaboration extends to the development of customized training courses, joint certification programmes aligned with international maritime standards, and professional development initiatives. Both parties will also cooperate on community engagement and corporate social responsibility initiatives, including maritime awareness programmes, sustainability efforts, youth engagement activities, career guidance, and participation in industry conferences and maritime events.
The MoU signifies a significant milestone in advancing maritime education, fostering innovation, and supporting sustainable workforce development, aligning with the UAE's strategic vision to enhance its maritime and logistics sectors as key economic growth drivers.
