by Tola Adenubi
The Lagos Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Engineer (Dr) Sarat Lara Braimah, has called for timely intervention in sustainable maritime education curriculum that targets the girl child in schools.
Speaking recently when she played host to a selection of primary and secondary school students nurtured by Ocean Ambassadors foundation as future leaders in the Nigerian Maritime sector, the NIWA Lagos Area Manager said that such effort will help close the professional maritime management gap in the male dominated marine resources environment.
With stirred eyes, enthusiastic and confidently adventurous look, the students tutored by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation as Maritime Academicals listened with rapt attention as the Area Manager, a top-notch female Maritime Engineer, explained to them the importance of choosing a career in the emerging Nigerian Maritime industry.
According to the NIWA Lagos Area Manager, “My dear children, I will encourage you all beyond just participating in Maritime debates and quiz programmes to take to Maritime studies either as an engineer, lawyer, environmentalist, ship captain, hydrographer and many other career options in the industry as the future looks brighter towards bigger international trade ecosystem through the ocean and Maritime domains.”
During the guided boat cruise with the children through the CMS Marina and Apapa waterfronts, she told the excited “Maritime academicals” and green horns” that life on water is exciting and worth studying, adding that she would as opportunities permits, continue to support and monitor their academic progress.
Founder, Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs. Violet Williams appreciated the Area Manager for her support and encouragement to the foundation, particularly to the young lads, stating that she was surprised at the red-carpet reception accorded the children and the boat cruise experience which will remain memorable for the kids in their lifetime. (Tribune)