Alaul Hossain
In the age of globalization and growing demand for skilled maritime professionals, Bangladesh has been steadily strengthening its maritime education infrastructure. Among the country’s five international-standard public marine academies, Bangladesh Marine Academy, Pabna stands out as a rising center of excellence, contributing significantly to the development of seafaring professionals for both domestic and international shipping industries.
A Strategic Beginning
Established under the Ministry of Shipping, the academy began its journey on May 6, 2021, with a vision to create internationally competent maritime officers. Situated in the scenic locality of Natiabari Mouza near Nagarbari Ghat, in the Bera Upazila of Pabna district, the academy is nestled on the banks of the Jamuna River, offering an ideal environment for disciplined and structured maritime training.
Despite being a relatively new institution, it has already completed two successful batches of pre-sea training, producing 109 cadets who are now actively serving on various national and international commercial ships. These early achievements symbolize a promising future for maritime training in the region.
World-Class Training Facilities
To ensure the highest quality maritime education and practical training, Bangladesh Marine Academy, Pabna is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to simulate real-world marine operations. Among its most notable infrastructures are:
- Fully air-conditioned digital classrooms
- Advanced marine laboratories and workshops
- Modern marine diesel engines and simulation rooms
- A fully equipped computer laboratory
- Cutting-edge navigation instruments
- A rich and well-stocked maritime library
- An international standard swimming pool
- A gymnasium, sports ground, and parade ground
These facilities ensure that cadets receive not just theoretical knowledge but also hands-on practical experience in real-time maritime operations, making them fully prepared for the challenges of the global shipping industry.
Comprehensive and Compliant Training Programs
All courses at the academy follow the international standards prescribed by the STCW-2010 convention, ensuring global recognition and compliance. In addition to the core pre-sea courses, the academy also offers various DG Shipping-approved ancillary courses, which provide cadets with supplementary skills necessary for their professional advancement.
Moreover, the institution believes in holistic development. Beyond maritime training, cadets participate in a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities such as:
- Weekly debate competitions
- Annual inter-division sports events
- Cultural programs and swimming contests
- Magazine publications and creative writing
- Educational tours and industrial visits
These activities foster leadership, teamwork, and communication skills—essential attributes for future officers who must navigate complex, multicultural, and dynamic marine environments.
Expert Faculty and Structured Supervision
The strength of any academic institution lies in its faculty, and Bangladesh Marine Academy, Pabna is no exception. The academy is proud to host:
- Experienced sea captains and chief engineers who impart hands-on knowledge of maritime operations
- Dedicated academic faculty specializing in nautical science, engineering, and marine technology
- Trained officers from the Bangladesh Navy who conduct physical training, parade drills, and discipline management
This structured approach ensures that every cadet is nurtured with the knowledge, skills, and discipline required to become a competent and responsible maritime professional.
Collaborative Growth Through Institutional Partnerships
To elevate its training standards, the academy has established resource-sharing agreements with several leading institutions, including:
- Bangladesh Marine Academy, Chattogram
- Pabna University of Science and Technology
- Edward College, Pabna
- National Maritime Institute, Chattogram
The academy is also officially affiliated with Bangladesh Maritime University, which adds further academic credibility and provides advanced educational opportunities for cadets looking to pursue higher studies.
Leadership That Drives Excellence
Behind the success of Bangladesh Marine Academy, Pabna is the visionary leadership of Commandant Captain Md. Toufiqul Islam, whose unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have transformed a fledgling institution into a beacon of maritime education in just a few short years.
Operating under challenges like limited manpower and infrastructural constraints, his leadership has ensured not only the smooth running of academic activities but also the beautification, discipline, and continuous development of the academy premises. His appreciation for the support of local residents highlights the community-centric philosophy of the institution.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the full cooperation of the local community,” says Captain Md. Toufiqul Islam. “We are deeply grateful for their unwavering support.”
Socioeconomic Contribution to the Community
The academy also contributes significantly to the socioeconomic development of surrounding communities. In line with its social responsibility, the institution has implemented several outreach programs, including:
- Distribution of safe drinking water
- Winter clothing for underprivileged families
- Sewing training programs and machine distribution
- Financial assistance to low-income households
These efforts not only enhance the quality of life in the region but also build a strong bond between the institution and the local community, fostering mutual growth and understanding.
Vision for the Future
Bangladesh Marine Academy, Pabna is not just producing skilled seafarers—it is inspiring the youth, creating employment, and contributing to the national economy. By training cadets to become disciplined, knowledgeable, and globally competitive professionals, the academy is playing a key role in reducing unemployment and raising Bangladesh’s profile in the international maritime sector.
Its long-term vision is to become a global hub for maritime training, fostering a generation of mariners who will uphold the principles of discipline, professionalism, and integrity across the seas.
Bangladesh Marine Academy, Pabna has swiftly emerged as a cornerstone in the nation’s maritime landscape. With modern facilities, experienced faculty, community engagement, and a forward-thinking leadership team, the academy is setting new benchmarks in maritime education. As the demand for skilled seafarers grows globally, this institution stands ready to meet that need—building not only careers but also contributing to a more prosperous and connected world.