Pratik Bijlani –
The Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA), a premier maritime training institute under the Anglo-Eastern Group, recently held its Passing Out and Prize Distribution Ceremony for Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) Batch 46 at its Karjat campus. The event marked a significant milestone for the graduating cadets as they completed their rigorous pre-sea training and prepared to embark on professional careers as marine engineers in the global shipping industry.
The GME programme at AEMA is a well-structured one-year course designed for engineering graduates aspiring to join the merchant navy. It combines extensive classroom instruction with hands-on practical training, including advanced simulator sessions and workshop experience. Aligned with International Maritime Organization standards under the STCW Convention, the programme equips cadets with the technical expertise, operational awareness, and safety mindset required for modern ship operations.
The ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Tejinder P.S. Bhamra, Principal of AEMA, who congratulated the cadets on successfully completing a demanding phase of their journey. He highlighted the critical role marine engineers play in ensuring vessel safety and operational reliability, emphasizing discipline, accountability, and preparedness for real-world challenges at sea.
This was followed by the course report presented by Mr. Yogesh Chonkar, GME Course In-Charge, who outlined the comprehensive training undertaken by Batch 46. The programme included approximately 700 hours of theoretical learning and 350 hours of practical training, supported by simulator-based sessions, virtual reality modules, and mandatory STCW courses. The cadets were also exposed to industry visits, behavioural training, and emerging topics such as AI awareness and alternative fuels. With a 99% overall result, the batch demonstrated strong academic and practical performance.
The event also featured a cultural segment, where cadets showcased their talents through dance and music performances, adding a vibrant dimension to the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Sanjay P. Dutta, Programme Head & DGM, Anglo-Eastern Institute, Mumbai, encouraged cadets to remain adaptable and continue learning throughout their careers. He emphasized that success at sea requires resilience, professionalism, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively in dynamic environments.
Guest of Honour Mr. Vijay Arora, Director-CEO of ShinraiTEX, shared insights from his own maritime journey, highlighting the evolving nature of the industry and the importance of safety and adaptability. He stated “Embrace change, prioritize safety, and approach every task with a ‘pause and decide’ approach. Trust yourself, enjoy the journey, and adapt to evolving technologies like LNG and hydrogen. Uphold discipline, professionalism, and integrity, so your work reflects not only your capability but also the dignity of your institution and nation.”
Chief Guest Mr. Kaushik Seal, President of The Institute of Marine Engineers (India), delivered an inspiring address, urging cadets to recognise their broader responsibilities within the maritime ecosystem. He remarked “You are no longer just engineers—you are custodians of global trade. Embrace continuous learning, uphold integrity when no one is watching, and adapt to the green transition. Stay resilient, value your support system, and carry forward the pride, responsibility, and discipline of the maritime profession.”
The ceremony also recognised outstanding cadets for excellence across various categories, with Cadet Akash Raju awarded Best Shipmate and Overall Best Cadet, Cadet Abhijeet Agarwala named Most Sincere Cadet, Cadet Akash Manoj receiving Best Cadet with Officer-like Qualities, Cadet Mohammed Aarib honoured for Best Workshop Skills, and Cadet Ajwin Antony securing the Academic Topper award, reflecting the academy’s commitment to merit and excellence.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Cadet Gokul, followed by a celebratory lunch, marking the successful transition of GME Batch 46 from cadets to future marine engineers ready to serve the global maritime industry.
Marex Media