Educators Advocate Early Introduction of Maritime Studies in Schools

Education and maritime experts have called for the inclusion of maritime and blue economy studies in Nigeria’s primary and secondary school curricula to build early interest and strengthen capacity in the sector.

The call was made during the Educators and Maritime Stakeholders Roundtable organised by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation (OAF) in Lagos, themed “The Future of Nigeria’s Blue Economy with the Girl Child: The Educator’s Perspective.”

Speaking at the event, Federal Commissioner for the National Population Commission (Lagos State), Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, stressed the need for collaboration among the Ministries of Education, Marine and Blue Economy, and relevant agencies to ensure that maritime-related subjects become examinable in schools.

“Introducing maritime education early will expose young minds, especially the girl child, to the vast opportunities within the sector and help prepare a generation of professionals who can contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Association of International School Educators of Nigeria (AISEN), Mrs. Adeola Arofin, encouraged students to explore career opportunities in maritime fields such as fisheries, logistics, transportation, and ocean conservation.

Chairman of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Regina Fabamwo, and OAF founder, Hon. Violet Williams, also urged parents and educators to promote maritime awareness through extracurricular activities and mentorship programs.

Participants agreed that early exposure to the maritime and blue economy sectors would help Nigeria nurture future experts and increase female participation in the industry.

Oshuniran Sheriff Ola