10 Jan 2025

Shaping the Future of Maritime Education and Engineering

An update on a seminar hosted by the IMarEST's Bangladesh Branch.

Shaping the Future of Maritime Education and Engineering 

Chattogram, Bangladesh

15 December 2024

The Bangladesh Branch of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST), headquartered in London, successfully hosted an impactful technical seminar on the evening of 15 December 2024 at Hotel Agrabad, Chattogram. The event focused on the future of maritime education and training, alongside the transformative role of technology in marine engineering.

The seminar was graced by the presence of distinguished maritime luminaries, including Captain M Zakaria, Ex-Commandant of Bangladesh Marine Academy, as Guest of Honour, and a renowned Marine Engineer Rafiqul Quader from Singapore, who brought their invaluable perspectives to the gathering.

Distinguished Keynote Speakers 

The event featured two eminent keynote speakers:

  • Captain Forkanul Quader MSc FNI: A Master Mariner and former Surveyor for the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) with over five decades of maritime expertise, shared his insights into the evolving landscape of maritime education and its critical role in ensuring safety and sustainability in the industry.

  • Dr. Sajid Hussain HonDSc MSc CEng CMarEng FIMarEST: A renowned marine engineer, UN IMO Maritime Ambassador, and the newly elected Chairman of IMarEST Bangladesh, brought to the table over four decades of expertise. His address highlighted the aspirational role of technology in transforming marine engineering and preparing the industry for the challenges of the future.

Both the speakers offered thought-provoking perspectives, igniting meaningful discussions on the aspirations and practical challenges faced by the maritime sector. 

Transition of Leadership

The seminar also served as a platform to introduce the newly elected Executive Committee of IMarEST Bangladesh. The outgoing committee, led by Chairman Marine Engineer Mahmudun Nabi and Honorary Secretary Marine Engineer Arifuzzaman, received heartfelt accolades for their remarkable dedication and achievements.

The new Executive Committee, helmed by Chairman Dr. Sajid Hussain and Honorary Secretary Marine Engineer Mohammad Obaidullah Ibne Bashir, expressed their vision for advancing IMarEST Bangladesh and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering professional excellence and innovation in the maritime community. “This seminar exemplifies our dedication to advancing knowledge and collaboration within the maritime sector,” remarked Mohammad Obaidullah Ibne Bashir, Honorary Secretary of IMarEST Bangladesh. 

Bangladesh Branch Executive Committee 2024 – 2025

Chairman: Dr. Sajid Hussain HonDSc MSc CEng CMarEng FIMarEST 

Vice Chairman: Engr. Abdullah Mohammad Ferdaus Khan 

Honorary Secretary: Engr. Mohammad Obaidullah Ibne Bashir 

Honorary Asst. Secretary: Engr. Atiqur Rahman Chowdhury 

Honorary Treasurer: Engr. Md. Manjurul Kabir 

Executive Member: Engr. Abu Md. Fazle Rashid 

Executive Member: Engr. Md. Golam Sarwar 

Executive Member: Engr. Mahmudun Nabi 

Executive Member: Engr. Arifur Rahman Khan 

Executive Member: Engr. Harunor Rashid 

Executive Member: Engr. Mohammad Abdul Mobin 

Executive Member: Engr. Syed Rashed Uzzaman 

Executive Member: Engr. SM Ainul Kamal 

Executive Member: Engr. Md. Farhad Hossain Biplob 

A Platform for Networking and Collaboration 

The seminar drew a diverse audience of maritime professionals, including representatives from government agencies, shipping companies, maritime academies, and industry experts. It provided an excellent forum for networking, knowledge sharing, and fostering partnerships within the maritime sector. 

About IMarEST Bangladesh Branch

In Bangladesh, IMarEST stands as a leading professional organization representing seafaring marine engineers. Its mission is to drive progress in marine engineering through education, research, and professional development, contributing to the sustainable growth of the maritime industry. 

This seminar is yet another testament to IMarEST Bangladesh’s dedication to shaping the future of maritime education and engineering.