A two-for-one celebration! The observance of World Maritime Day (WMD) on June 25 was marked by the graduation of three cohorts of marine officer cadets from the National Maritime Education School (ENEM) in Mahajanga. This year's event was held under the theme "Transporting Global Trade. Bearing the Risks."
The official commissioning ceremony for the three cohorts, comprising eighteen students—including Bridge Watch Officer Cadets (EOQP), Engine Watch Officer Cadets (EOQM), and Fishing Lieutenant Cadets (ELP)—took place at ENEM facilities in Mahajanga-Be. These newly graduated seafarers completed a twenty-day training program and are now entering the workforce.
"This is a solemn and symbolic moment marking the official entry of these future professionals into the maritime world. Madagascar has five thousand seafarers working worldwide and another five thousand working domestically. Of the fifteen bridge watch officers trained in 2025, seven are working in Europe and ten of the fourteen fishing lieutenants (LP) are already recruited," said ENEM Director General Rekoria Manantsapa Mitondrarivo.
The 2026 cohort commissioning reflects a dual purpose: an academic celebration marking the completion of a demanding journey and a professional commitment. The new graduates are ready to face the challenges of a vital yet demanding sector. This ceremony symbolizes their commitment, discipline, and dedication to excellence and responsibility.
"The certificate issued by ENEM is internationally recognized. The diploma holds the same value as in other International Maritime Organization (IMO) member countries. They receive the same salary worldwide," added Ronsard Franck Rakotozafiarimamy, director of the Port, Maritime and Fluvial Agency (APMF) in Mahajanga and merchant marine officer.
International Maritime Day, observed annually on June 25, honors seafarers worldwide—true pillars of global commerce—who often face difficult, dangerous conditions and sometimes conflict zones.
Vero Andrianarisoa