-Pratik Bijlani
The Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA), Karjat, held the passing out and prize distribution ceremony for the prestigious Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) Batch 40. The event took place at the campus auditorium on April 3rd, 2024.
Aspiring marine engineers, their families, faculty colleagues, and prominent visitors gathered to honour the end of a transformative journey and celebrate the graduating cadets’ extraordinary achievements.
The GME programme is a beacon of opportunity for mechanical engineering graduates looking to pursue a career in the merchant navy industry. Approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), this one-year diploma course includes eight months of classroom (pre-sea) training and four months of onboard training.
The ceremony began with an air of reverence and gratitude as attendees acknowledged the presence of the Guest of Honour, Commodore Dr Vivek Chawla, Campus Director of the Indian Maritime University (IMU), Mumbai Port Campus, and thanked the dedicated faculty members who had played important roles in shaping the cadets’ futures.
Capt Suneel Sule, Principal, AEMA gave a heartfelt welcome address, setting the tone for an evening of meditation and celebration. Mr Tejinder P Bhamra, Vice Principal and GME Course In-charge, delivered a thorough Course Report that highlighted the academic excellence and practical competency displayed by GME Batch 40 throughout their training.
Capt KN Deboo, Principal & Director of Anglo-Eastern Maritime Training Centre (AEMTC), presented a poignant speech on the value of resilience and grabbing opportunities in the maritime business. He provided enlightening experiences from his own career, encouraging the cadets to face problems with tenacity and courage. He said, “Opportunities may arise once in a while in your life, and you must seize them with both hands. Because if you let it slip now you will have missed out on that opportunity and will have to wait for the next one.”
Mr Francis Akkara, Vice Principal and Assistant Director of AEMTC, emphasised the importance of integrity and sincerity in ensuring maritime safety, asking cadets to prioritise precise reporting and adherence to protocol.
The prize distribution event was the evening’s highlight, with Mr. Sangram Singh Deshmukh receiving the prestigious Overall Best Cadet Award. In his passionate vote of thanks, Mr Singh thanked his mentors, classmates, and loved ones. He stated, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this fantastic journey with me. I wish you everyone nice winds and smooth sailing.”
As GME Batch 40 embarks on their professional journeys, they bring with them great lessons and treasured memories from their time at AEMA. With a strong commitment to excellence and a sense of community, these cadets are set to make lasting contributions to the maritime industry, reflecting the concept of fair winds and easy sailing for all.
Marex Media