AMET University, India’s premier maritime institution, successfully hosted the 25th Annual General Assembly (AGA25) of the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) from October 13 to 18, 2025 — marking the first-ever edition of this global event held in India.
Organized in collaboration with IAMU, the six-day event featured a four-day International Conference on “Disruptive Technologies and Innovations on Sustainable Maritime Practices”, held across AMET University, Chennai and Hotel Radisson Blu, Mamallapuram.
The conference brought together 162 delegates from 93 maritime universities across 42 countries, offering a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing, research exchange, and collaborative dialogue on the future of sustainable and technology-driven maritime education.
Key Dignitaries and Highlights
The assembly was presided over by Dr. Shan Hongjiun, Chair of IAMU and President of Dalian Maritime University, China, who lauded IAMU’s role in promoting global maritime cooperation.
Dr. J. Ramachandran, Chancellor of AMET University and Chief Patron of AGA25, inaugurated and concluded the event, reaffirming AMET’s vision to serve as a global hub for maritime knowledge, education, and research.
The event was formally inaugurated by Shri Shyam Jeganathan, Director General of Shipping, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India. In his address, he emphasized India’s emergence as a maritime powerhouse, highlighting the ₹69,725 crore government initiative aimed at strengthening shipbuilding, ship recycling, and green maritime practices.
Mr. Takeju Ogata, Chairman of The Nippon Foundation, Japan, commended AMET’s leadership in tackling global maritime challenges and fostering international cooperation in ocean governance.
Dr. Takeshi Nakazawa, Executive Director of IAMU, delivered a special address on emerging trends in maritime education and the importance of industry-academia linkages.
Major Outcomes
Formation of a World Maritime Industry Advisory Board to enhance global collaboration between academia and industry.
Emphasis on digital transformation and emerging technologies in maritime training and research.
Strengthened focus on sustainability, safety, and innovation across IAMU member institutions.
The academic program was curated by Dr. Deepa Rajesh, Vice President (Academic) and Programme Editor of AGA25, who detailed the thematic framework and participation statistics. Dr. Sangeetha Albin, Registrar of AMET University, ensured seamless coordination throughout the event and presented awards for best paper presentations.
Closing and Technical Tour
In his valedictory address, Col. Dr. G. Thiruvasagam, Provost of AMET University and President of AGA25, reflected on the strategic insights and outcomes of the conference.
Delegates concluded their visit with a technical tour of AMET’s world-class facilities, including the Maersk Centre of Excellence and Maritime Simulation Centre, showcasing India’s growing maritime infrastructure and training excellence.
The successful hosting of AGA25 underscores India’s rising leadership in maritime education and research, placing AMET University firmly on the global maritime map.
