MODEC Production Services Ghana JV Limited has handed over a fully operational work­boat, Handler 2, to the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra on Tuesday.The vessel, described as a "floating classroom," would soon be transferred to the Gha­na Ports and Harbours Authority (GHAPOHA) and used by RMU to train seafarers in practical maritime operations.The donation, supported by MV25 Charter Fund Partners, marked a significant step in building maritime training capac­ity in Ghana.MODEC, a global leader in building and operating floating solutions for the offshore oil and gas industry, also donated $20,000 to support the transfer and refurbishment of the vessel.at the handing over ceremony, the Acting Vice-Chan­cellor of RMU, Dr Jethro W.

Brooks Jr., expressed deep appre­ciation for MODEC's continued partnership and support."Our longstanding relationship with MODEC is built on shared values of excellence, innovation, and capacity-building.

This part­nership exemplifies how industry and academia can collaborate to empower the next generation of maritime professionals," he mentioned.Dr Brooks described Handler 2 as an essential tool in maritime education, underscoring its role in developing practical seamanship skills such as mooring, anchoring, line handling and navigation."Students will gain hands-on experience in vessel operation, engine and propulsion systems, and emergency drills," he noted."This aligns with the IMO's Standards of Training, Certifica­tion and Watchkeeping (STCW), which requires practical safety training that workboats deliver effectively," he added.He assured stakeholders that Handler 2 will be fully integrat­ed into RMU's academic and training programmes, offering students immersive, real-world maritime experience.MODEC Managing Direc­tor, Mr Theophilus Ahwireng, emphasised that the donation is a long-term investment in maritime education and offshore capabilities for Ghana and the wider West African region.He revealed that MODEC and its partners have invest­ed over $2.3 million in RMU projects, including a state-of-the-art Welding Training Centre developed in collaboration with Tullow Oil at a cost of $1.8 million."We urge all users of the workboat to be diligent stew­ards of this valuable resource," Mr Ahwireng indicated, while commending RMU's leadership for upholding international stan­dards and fostering impactful collaborations. BY TIMES REPORTER