Bhubaneswar: In a transformative moment for the Indian blue economy, Centurion University’s School of Maritime Studies (SoMS) has been officially designated a Global Centre of Excellence.
This rare accreditation makes SoMS the first institution in Southeast Asia and only the second in the world to achieve this distinction from the maritime industry’s two most powerful governing bodies.
The recognition is a joint initiative by The Nautical Institute (NI) and The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST). These “apex bodies” represent the global gold standard for both nautical science and marine engineering.
The historic status was inaugurated today by Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways.
Elevating India on the Global Maritime Map
While India has traditionally been a major supplier of maritime labour, this accreditation signals the country’s emergence as a global hub for high-tier education and research. The “Certificate of Excellence” is awarded only to institutions that demonstrate “outstanding standards” in training the next generation of maritime leaders.
“This recognition places Centurion University at the forefront of the global maritime map,” said Shantanu Thakur. “It reinforces India’s commitment to producing world-class maritime professionals who will lead the future of global trade.”
Dr. Supriya Pattanayk, Vice-Chancellor of Centurion University, remarked: “Out of our 17 specialized schools, SoMS has blazed a trail. Achieving this global gold standard is a testament to the passion and dedication required to be truly world-class.”
Key Highlights of the Accreditation:
– A Global Rarity: Centurion University now joins an elite tier as one of only two
institutions globally to hold this specific title.
– Regional Leadership: As the sole recipient in Southeast Asia, the university has
effectively leapfrogged established maritime hubs in Singapore and Hong Kong.
– Industry Validation: The joint accreditation from IMarEST and NI ensures that graduates meet the most rigorous technical and safety standards in the world.
The event was attended by Prof. Mukti Mishra (President, Centurion University), Capt. Vikas Patra (Director, SoMS & Group MD of Seaborne Ship Management), Prof. (Dr.) Ajaya Kumar Nayak (Pro-VC), and a full assembly of students and faculty.
