India’s first maritime simulation centre opens at AMET

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, today inaugurated India’s first-of-its-kind Maritime Simulation Centre at AMET Knowledge Park, Maersk’s Centre of Excellence in Thenpattinam, near Chennai. The ceremony was attended by Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, Mr. Peter Winther-Schmidt, Head of Trade and Innovation, Consulate General of Denmark, Bangalore, senior delegates from A.P. Moller – Maersk, and hundreds of aspiring seafarers.

Established through a strategic partnership between AMET University and A.P. Moller-Maersk, the centre was developed with an investment of INR 13.5 crore, including INR 6.5 crore (USD 750,000) from the A.P. Moller Foundation. The facility features cutting-edge technology such as Full Mission Simulators for deck and engine operations, Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), and advanced AR/VR labs. These tools provide cadets with immersive hands-on training in navigation, watchkeeping, collision avoidance, engine troubleshooting, and other critical maritime skills.

During the inauguration, Shri Sonowal praised the collaboration, highlighting its role in developing world-class maritime professionals and strengthening India’s position as a maritime nation. Dr. J. Ramachandran, Founder & Chancellor of AMET University, underscored the institution’s three-decade-long commitment to maritime excellence. Ms. Nynne Norman Scheuer, Senior Director at Maersk, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to bridging academic learning with real-world maritime operations.

The centre marks a new era in maritime education, equipping students with practical experience and preparing them to meet the challenges of global shipping.