A double success!
The celebration of the Day of the Seafarer, held every June 25th, was marked this year by the graduation of three cohorts of student marine officers from the National School of Maritime Education (ENEM) in Mahajanga. This year’s event was held under the theme: “Navigating the future: Safety first!” (Note: reflecting the context of global maritime trade).
The official graduation and commissioning ceremony for the eighteen students—comprising Deck Officer Cadets (EOQP), Engine Officer Cadets (EOQM), and Fishing Lieutenant Cadets (ELP)—took place at the ENEM premises in Mahajanga-Be. These newly graduated mariners have completed a twenty-day training program and are now set to enter the workforce.
“This is a solemn and symbolic moment marking the official entry of these future professionals into the maritime sector. Madagascar has five thousand sailors working worldwide, and another five thousand practicing their profession within the country. Of the fifteen deck officers trained in 2025, seven are working in Europe, and ten of the fourteen fishing lieutenants have already been recruited,” stated Rekoria Manantsapa Mitondrarivo, Director General of ENEM.
The commissioning of the 2026 cohorts embodies a dual spirit: an academic celebration marking the culmination of a demanding course of study, and a professional commitment. The new graduates are ready to take on the challenges of a vital yet demanding sector. This ceremony symbolizes their dedication, discipline, and commitment to the values of excellence and responsibility.
“The certificates issued by ENEM are recognized internationally. The diploma holds the same value as those in other member countries of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). They receive the same salary anywhere in the world,” added Ronsard Franck Rakotozafiarimamy, an officer in the merchant navy and Director of the Port, Maritime and River Agency (APMF) of Mahajanga.
The Day of the Seafarer, observed every June 25th, pays tribute to sailors around the world—the true pillars of global trade—who are often confronted with difficult, dangerous conditions and, at times, conflict zones.
Vero Andrianarisoa
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-03 07:13:01 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/mahajanga-dix-huit-nouveaux-officiers.html