Sharjah: Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA) and the World Maritime University (WMU) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Collaborative Activities Agreement to enhance maritime research and academic programs. The MoU was signed by Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., President of WMU, and Dr. Hashim Abdullah bin Sharhan Al Zaabi, Chancellor of SMA.

According to Emirates News Agency, this partnership between the institutions in the United Arab Emirates and Sweden aims to advance sustainable maritime development through collaborative research and education. President Mejia emphasized that working with SMA will allow WMU to deepen its academic impact and support maritime leadership development in the Gulf region, which plays a crucial role in global shipping.

Chancellor Alzaabi highlighted that the MoU is a strategic milestone for SMA, facilitating global partnerships to enhance research and education capabilities. The collaboration will prepare graduates to support the UAE's maritime ambitions and lead innovations in the blue economy. It will establish high-impact academic programs, joint research initiatives, and international teaching exchanges.

The MoU serves as a framework for long-term collaboration in maritime research, education, training, and capacity development. The Collaborative Activities Agreement details academic and research initiatives set to launch in 2025 and 2026. SMA and WMU will work on joint research projects, including The Dhow Project, The Seafarer Supply Project, and Proactive Maritime Traffic Management Project.

This cooperation aligns with the shared mission of WMU and SMA to advance maritime knowledge and innovation, supporting the global maritime sector through research-led education.