Participants at the maiden edition of Students Entrepreneurial Development Seminar (SEDS) have called for inclusion of the study of marine and blue economy to secondary school curriculum so as to give students a better perspective of the industry at a younger age.
The participants which included key maritime players, journalists and students during an interactive session at the one-day seminar organized by News
Emperor Magazine in partnership with. Widescope Logistics International also resolved that youths undergoing maritime courses in various institutions should study more science related courses so as to tap from opportunities in marine biotechnology.
Students studying arts subjects were assured of areas they can exploit in building entrepreneurial skills such as freight forwarding, chandling, stevedoring, diving, amongst others.
In the communique issued at the end of the SED Seminar, youths studying in various maritime institutions were charged today develop skills that will make them self employed rather than seeking for employment after graduation.
Employers of labour were urged to open their doors and give opportunity to graduates from recognised marine institutions like Certified Institute of Shipping of Nigeria CISN), Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN) Oron.
Private maritime institutions were urged to develop curricular alongside higher schools such as Institute of Maritime, University of Lagos, Maritime Academy, Oron to mention but a few.
The communique noted that there are no institutions where youths can acquire skill as Sailors except Nigerian Navy.
It also noted that ship repair and maintenance, pilotage, barging, maritime tourism, offshore oil and gas are veritable areas to develop entrepreneurial skills in marine and blue economy.
The communique observed that the coastal waters are rich in marine lives, offering sources of food that can address problem of food security.
It stressed that with a coastal waterway of 850 kilometres along the Atlantic, Nigeria ports serve as vital cornerstone for international trade.
The communique further noted that developing an efficient and competitive port system and maritime logistics can attract foreign investment and trade partnerships.
It posited that Improving/ Expanding security of oil and gas sector will enhance revenue/ foreign exchange, technological advancement and job.
It hinted that the blue economy has an estimated value of $24trn and annual benefit of $2.5trn and if properly exploited there is potential of prospect in future.