Over 560 new cadets have enrol led at Kherson State Maritime Academy (KSMA) and its maritime college this academic year, increasing the total to 3,300 and reflecting the continued strong interest in pursuing seafaring professions amid ongoing challenges.
This follows KSMA’s significant enhancement of temporary facilities, securing suitable classroom space, dormitories with over 100 cadets being accommodated per year, as well as a great deal of practical training and learning facilities at various accredited maritime training centres in Odessa. Together with substantial financial support from Marlow in 2024 alone, this now includes advanced deck and engine desktop simulators and incorporating cutting-edge technology, such as VR and other innovative equipment to further enrich the educational and training experience for cadets.
“We sincerely appreciate the academy’s significant efforts to facilitate the return of first- and second-year cadets for onsite studies. This has enabled them to engage in professional simulations and basic safety training at the academy,” stated Joint Managing Director, Marlow Navigation, Jan Meyering.
“We must highlight the excellent support and cooperation from our instructors at Kherson Maritime Specialised Training Centre (KMSTC) in Odessa. Their active participation in teaching essential subjects at KSMA and keeping students engaged and motivated has been invaluable,” continued Meyering.
“I would also like to acknowledge the exceptional leadership of KSMA’s Rector, Professor Vasyl Cherniavskyi. His firm commitment has ensured the academy’s continuity during the challenging times in Ukraine over the last years. The relentless work of his team, whether from Odessa, Kherson, occupied territories, Western Ukraine, or abroad, exemplifies a dedication that is truly inspiring.”
“Rest assured, you have our full support as your reliable maritime industry partners,” added Meyering.
Marlow’s cooperation with KSMA has gone from strength to strength over the past 17 years, whilst the academy continues to thrive in its temporary location in Odessa. Although the timeline for its return to Kherson remains uncertain, KSMA continues to be a resilient institution. This relationship is further bolstered by the unwavering support of Marlow’s Ukraine office, who has stood by the academy and its cadets resolutely through the joys, difficulties, and tribulations over the years, always being the first to respond.
“Collaborative efforts of the wider maritime industry, and strategic partnerships, principally with Marlow Navigation have played a crucial role in addressing our cadets’ urgent needs. Together, we are finding ways to navigate through the challenging circumstances and allow them to continue their education and careers. In particular, the provision of essential resources and facilities, which ensure cadets may continue their education and necessary practical training,” said Professor Cherniavskyi.
“This collective response exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of the maritime community in times of crisis. On behalf of the academy, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and thanks to all who have supported us, and to my colleagues for their ongoing commitment, professionalism and utmost care for our cadets,” he added.
Moreover, Marlow has been fully supporting KSMA cadets in pursuing their studies at the Lithuanian Maritime Academy (LMA). Through this initiative, more than 100 graduates have successfully completed their education in Lithuania, obtaining both Ukrainian and European diplomas. The company has covered their tuition fees and accommodation costs.
The company has pledged to continue this support by assisting another group of KSMA graduates as they complete their final academic semester in Lithuania, allowing them to continue their journey toward becoming merchant marine officers. Meanwhile, other forms of assistance include providing training opportunities for over 75 cadets from the academy and an additional 20 from the college, support for non-Marlow-selected KSMA cadets in securing sea service opportunities, as well as incentives for KSMA’s dedicated teachers and providing the logistical and technical support needed to ensure everyone can succeed.
With this ongoing and strong collaboration, the academy’s reputation as a top maritime institution in Ukraine will only continue to grow, solidifying its position as a National and International Maritime Education Centre of Excellence, continuing to shape the future of Ukrainian cadets.
