Organization History
Oceans provide a substantial portion of the global population with food and livelihoods and are the means of transport for 80% of global trade.
As Bangladesh is a maritime nation with 2.30 hectares coast area & 720 km long sea coastline. One-fourth of its total population, around 45 million, lives along the coast line, relying both directly and indirectly on the sea for their livelihoods. That is why, 90% of our export and import depends on sea.
Our Journey Through the waves
After the liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971; National Leader Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman observed lack of skilled manpower for judicious exploitation and harvesting of marine fisheries resources. The Government realized that without skilled manpower i.e. qualified officers, the growth of an efficient fishing fleet would be impossible.
1973
Foundation of the Academy
The Marine Fisheries Academy was established to train and develop skilled professionals in the field of marine fisheries. The architect of independent Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman established Marine Fisheries Academy to produce skilled manpower for fishing fleet with the collaboration of the then Soviet Government on 1st September 1973. In the beginning, only 30 cadets were enrolled and trained in the academy, but now that number has increased to 100.
1982
Formation of the Ex-Cadet Association
Alumni came together to form the Marine Fisheries Academy Ex-Cadet Association, aimed at fostering a supportive network for all graduates. With the intention of considering the needs of the maritime sector and realizing the systematic needs of Marine Officers and above all with the sole interest of perfecting the contribution of Ex-Cadets of Marine Fisheries Academy to the welfare of the country and nation, the passed out cadets of this Academy established a non profitable welfare organisation named “Marine Fisheries Academy Ex-Cadet Association” on 27 October 1982.
1985
Expansion of Activities
In the beginning, it was led by Engineer Md. Shahjahan, Navigator Samchul Islam Rashedi, Fish Processing Technologist Waheduzzaman. Later, on 23rd January 1985, the Ex-Cadet Association got the registration approval by Department of Social Services under the Ministry of Social Welfare, Govt. The association expanded its activities to include professional development workshops, networking events, and community service projects.
So far, more than 2100 cadets of 42 batches have completed their training from this academy and are working successfully in different parts of the world.
Among those about 1200 cadets is now serving in international maritime sector thus Bangladesh earning about US$57.60 million as foreign remittance annually.
Marine Fisheries Academy Ex Cadet Association, the organization is only the root of those cadets of the community members.
Beside male seafarers, females are also coming forward to contribute in the maritime sector. In 2011, the academy admitted male cadets in the 32nd batch along with 1st female cadets who graduated in 2014. So far 60 female cadets up to 41st batch have completed their training from the academy and are efficiently performing their duties in the maritime sector of the country and abroad. As a result, opportunities for women’s empowerment have been created and now contributing in Blue Economy of the country.
Our members serving the world on different profession. Most of the members of this Association are serving in the fishing fleet operating in the Bay of Bengal and in shore based fish processing plants. Many are also now working in different maritime organizations around the globe therefore contributing directly to the national economy.
This clearly justifies that MFAECA is very prospective organisation for Bangladesh for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Meet Our Founding Members
Our association is built on the dedication and vision of our founding members. Get to know the leaders who have shaped our journey.
Captain John Smith
President
Dr. Emily Johnson
Vice President
Mr. Robert Brown
Treasurer
Ms. Linda Davis
Secretary
Member Benefits
Networking Opportunities
Exclusive Events
Career Support
Resource Library
Access a wealth of resources, including research papers, industry reports, and training materials.
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Join the Marine Fisheries Academy Ex-Cadet Association to connect with fellow alumni, access exclusive resources, and advance your career. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of a thriving community. Become a member today!