CMU President Gets OD

President, Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), Professor Andrew Spencer’s life has been marked by a diverse range of experiences, that has shaped his approach to education and leadership.

On National Heroes Day, October 21, Professor Spencer will be conferred with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander, for his contribution to the fields of tourism and education, at the annual National Honours and Awards ceremony, to be held at King’s House.

Widely considered a transformative leader, Professor Spencer’s tenure in executive roles, spans various sectors including academia, tourism, and corporate management.

He has been a transformative figure at the University of the West Indies, where he received a long service award for his 15 years of dedicated work.

Also, his experience as the Executive Director of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) further honed his skills in strategic planning and industry development.

Professor Spencer joined the CMU as President in 2022 and under his leadership, the institution has not only focused on academic excellence but has aimed to align its programmes with the needs of the maritime industry.

This has ensured that graduates are equipped with the skills required to thrive in a competitive global environment.

“The joy of watching youngsters excel, going out into the world well prepared, and contributing to society is unparalleled,” he stated.

One of the President’s most significant achievements at CMU, is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the university and Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise company in 2023.

“This agreement allows our students to seek and gain employment with Carnival and its other brands, which is vital for their career development. The implications of this partnership extend beyond individual success,” Professor Spencer said.

“It positions CMU as a critical player in the Caribbean maritime sector, contributing to Jamaica’s economic fortunes. As a nation that relies heavily on tourism, the collaboration with Carnival Cruise Lines not only bolsters employment opportunities, but also enhances the country’s reputation as a hub for maritime education and training,” he added.

Professor Spencer noted that his vision for the CMU is rooted in the understanding of the maritime industry and its far-reaching impact on society.

“We have to service an industry that services everybody else. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders and integrating practical training into the curriculum, we are preparing students to meet the evolving demands of the maritime sector,” he stated.

Professor Spencer added that the university is now viewed as a place of choice for many young individuals aspiring to build careers in the maritime industry.

He said through initiatives such as internships and cooperative education programmes with prominent maritime companies, students gain invaluable real-world experiences that enhance their employability.

“Increased employment opportunities for graduates will lead to greater consumer spending, boosting local businesses and enhancing overall economic stability. We envision a future where CMU graduates are not only successful in their careers, but also active contributors to their communities, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation,” Professor Spencer said.

Meanwhile, the CMU President notes that while he remains focused on the future, his vision extends beyond immediate successes, adding that he aims to create a sustainable model of education that can adapt to the changing dynamics of the maritime industry.

“We are committed to continuous improvement and innovation in our programmes,” he stated.

He noted that in an era where technology is rapidly transforming industries, the CMU is poised to integrate new advancements into its curriculum.

“We are very passionate about embracing digital tools and innovative teaching methods that will prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow. By cultivating a culture of research and development, we are positioning the CMU as a leader in maritime education in the Caribbean,” Professor Spencer said.