Educational Opportunities in the Maritime Sector and the Development of the Bangladeshi Economy

Abstract

The concept of a blue economy recognizes the seas and oceans as main drivers for economic development with great potential for innovation and growth. Bangladesh is blessed with an approximately 700 km long coast with nearly 1,18,813 sq. km. of maritime area. Hence it is likely to emerge as an important maritime State. The maritime sector in this country has a huge potential to boost national economic growth and thereby harness the blue economy. To tap the benefits from this sector, among others, there is a need to develop maritime human resources. Competent maritime human resources are considered the backbone of the blue economy and hence the national economic growth. As such Bangladesh needs to emphasize more on developing human resources in this sector through proper maritime education. Collaboration at the national and international level in the area of maritime research and education may be given priority to mitigate the challenges militating against the national economic growth. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University, Bangladesh may play a key role in unlocking the potential of Maritime Education for enhanced national economic growth.