The Regional Maritime University (RMU) launched the RMU Seabed and Maritime Archaeology Research Centre (SMARC) on Thursday, February 26, 2026, to strengthen ocean conservation efforts and advance marine scientific research across Africa.
The university brought together stakeholders from the maritime and oil and gas industries, along with representatives from government, academia, and research institutions, to support the Centre’s implementation and long-term sustainability.
RMU established the Centre as part of its wider commitment to expand knowledge, encourage innovation, and deliver practical, research-driven solutions to challenges within the maritime environment.
At the ceremony, Acting Vice Chancellor Dr Jethro W. Brooks Jr stated that SMARC will provide advanced training and build capacity once it becomes fully operational, marking an important step in Ghana’s marine research and conservation efforts.
He added that RMU has started working with the Government of Ghana through the Ghana Maritime Authority and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the Centre and its programmes.
Mr Edmond Moukala, UNESCO Country Representative and Special Guest, described SMARC as a platform that will turn international ocean preservation agreements into practical action. He encouraged African countries to collaborate more closely and position the Centre as a hub for capacity building on the continent.
Mr Theophilus Ahwireng, CEO of MODEC, stressed the need to strengthen local content and increase investment to expand similar research centres. He also acknowledged RMU’s commitment to advancing knowledge through research and preparing the next generation of maritime professionals.
Prof. Kwasi Appeaning Addo, a coastal specialist and professor at the University of Ghana’s Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, welcomed the initiative and assured RMU of his institution’s support in achieving SMARC’s goals.
Mr George Amado, Executive Director and Local Instructor of Coral Reefstoration Ghana, urged stakeholders to work together to safeguard the ocean and protect marine biodiversity.
In his presentation, Mr Benedict Aubyn, Head of the Nautical Science Department at RMU, called for stronger research efforts in the marine and diving sectors and reaffirmed RMU’s dedication to promoting marine conservation through evidence-based research at SMARC.
source: regional-maritime-university-
African Maritime Council