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The Decline of Bangladesh Marine Academy: A Case Study of Corruption, Nepotism, and Mismanagement!


Over the past 14 years, the Bangladesh Marine Academy, once a beacon of excellence in maritime education, has suffered due to rampant corruption, political interference, and administrative irregularities. The prolonged tenure of former Commandant Engineer Sajid Hossain, despite his dismissal for corruption in 2003, exemplifies how political favoritism has overshadowed merit and integrity in the maritime sector.


Sajid Hossain’s Controversial Tenure


Engineer Sajid Hossain was dismissed in 2003 during his role as Chief Engineer due to allegations of corruption and irregularities. Despite this, he managed to secure reappointment as Commandant in 2009 under the Awami League government. Over the years, Sajid’s tenure was extended seven times, primarily due to his political connections.


His tenure ended in September 2023, but not without controversy. Sajid allegedly attempted to extend his contract by issuing a backdated circular. He also retained government assets, including a bungalow and vehicle, for 10 months after leaving office. An audit report from 2014 to 2021 revealed financial irregularities amounting to Tk 4.35 crore under his watch.


Decline in Marine Academy Standards


Under Sajid’s leadership, the Marine Academy became a political platform rather than an institution of excellence. Key decisions, including the opening of multiple academies without proper planning or surveys, led to a significant oversupply of cadets. The number of graduates far exceeds the available job opportunities on national flagships, leaving many mariners unemployed.


In the 2022-2023 academic year alone, 546 cadets graduated from various marine academies, with 400 remaining unemployed. The situation worsens annually as new batches enter the already saturated job market.


Women Cadets and Unemployment


Efforts to include women cadets during Sajid’s tenure were laudable in principle but poorly implemented. Between 2013 and 2023, 95 women cadets were trained at the Chittagong Marine Academy, but only 49 found employment. Similar trends were observed in other academies, raising concerns about the effectiveness of such initiatives.


Political Expansion of Marine Academies


Driven by political considerations, multiple marine academies were established across the country without assessing the actual demand. Government institutions in Madaripur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, and Meherpur, as well as private academies, now churn out cadets who face bleak job prospects. While intended to decentralize education, these expansions have contributed to inefficiency and unemployment.


Administrative Stagnation and Poor Oversight


After Sajid’s departure, the Marine Academy has struggled to function effectively. The lack of a permanent Commandant has left the institution under the additional responsibilities of the Chief of Naval Education, causing administrative paralysis.


Urgent Need for Reform


Shipping Advisor Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain highlighted the sector’s mismanagement over the past 15 years, emphasizing the need for transparency and long-term planning. Similarly, Commodore Mohammad Maqsood Alam, Director General of the Department of Shipping, has acknowledged past mistakes and stressed the importance of bringing the sector under proper regulation.


Conclusion


The Bangladesh Marine Academy, once a symbol of pride for the nation, is now mired in corruption, unemployment, and inefficiency. The legacy of Dr. Sajid Hossain’s tenure underscores the dangers of prioritizing political considerations over institutional integrity. Immediate reforms, including better oversight, employment planning, and merit-based appointments, are essential to restore the academy’s reputation and ensure a brighter future

for its cadets.


Credit: Samakal

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