The Academy of Maritime Education and Training (AMET), Chennai, established in 1993 as India’s first Maritime University, has over three decades evolved into a Global Maritime Knowledge Hub. Accredited with NAAC ‘A’ Grade and ranked among the world’s top maritime universities, AMET educates more than 4,000 students in diverse maritime and allied disciplines. With over 27,000 alumni serving worldwide, including in senior leadership roles across global shipping companies, AMET continues to shape India’s maritime leadership.

In collaboration with A.P. Moller – Maersk, Denmark, AMET has built one of the longest-standing industry–academia partnerships in the maritime world, spanning more than 25 years. This partnership pioneered the “Admission with Appointment Order” model, providing students with assured career opportunities upon entry, and established India’s first Maersk Centre of Excellence at AMET Knowledge Park of AMET in Tenpattinam , Chengalpattu District.

As part of this enduring collaboration, the Maritime Simulation Centre will be inaugurated at the AMET Knowledge Park campus, Thenpattinam (approximately 90 km from Chennai on East Coast Road) on Friday, 26th September 2025 at 4:00 PM. A.P Moller Foundation donated $7,50,000 to establish Maritime Simulation Centre is a part of the International Industry and Research Collabration with AMET

This journey has been guided by the vision of Dr. J. Ramachandran, Founder & Chancellor of AMET, who has for over 32 years been a towering personality in Indian maritime education. From a modest beginning with 14 cadets, his pioneering vision transformed AMET into a globally recognised institution. At the inauguration, the Chancellor will preside over the function and deliver the Presidential Address, setting the tone for the programme.

The event will be graced by the Honourable Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Government of India, as Chief Guest, and Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, as Guest of Honour. Adding international significance, senior leaders from A.P. Moller – Maersk — Ms. Nynne Norman Scheuer (Senior Director, Head of Marine People & Culture), Capt. Karan Kochhar (Director, Head of Marine People Asia, Fleet Management & Technology), and Mr. Vivek Sharma (Head of Public Policy & Regulatory Affairs, India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka) — will also address the gathering.

The Maritime Simulation Centre is the first of its kind in India, designed to bring together advanced simulation technology, global industry expertise, and academic excellence. It represents a milestone in global industry–academia collaboration, preparing the next generation of seafarers for leadership in international shipping.