"Bangladesh, a nation deeply rooted in her maritime heritage, has a history of seafaring that spans thousands of years. This intrinsic connection to the sea can be attributed to several geographical and historical factors, including one of the world's most extensive river networks, the largest bay, a sprawling delta, the longest unbroken sea beach, and the presence of one of the oldest sea ports.

The heartbeat of Bangladesh's national economy is intricately linked with her ports, merchant marines, and the broader maritime sector. The country's shipping sector, with her rich history and maturity, reflects her deep-seated maritime traditions. Recognizing the significance of both ancient wooden shipbuilding techniques and contemporary ocean-going shipbuilding, the Bangladesh Marine Academy was established in 1962 to fulfill the growing demand for skilled mariners and engineers.

It was the visionary leader and the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who keenly understood the pivotal role of the maritime sector in the development of our beloved nation. Under his leadership, the "Bangladesh Marine Academy" was re-established during the "Development of Marine Academy (1973-1980)" initiative. As such, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman rightfully holds the esteemed title of the 'Founder of maritime Bangladesh,' for his unwavering commitment to the development of this vital sector."

"Bangladesh, with its rich maritime heritage, has been a nation intertwined with the sea for millennia. The people of Bangladesh have a natural affinity for seafaring, a tradition passed down through generations. The country's shipping sector, steeped in history and well-seasoned, owes its strength to a confluence of geographical advantages, including one of the world's largest river networks, the vastest bay, a sprawling delta, the longest unbroken sea beach, and the presence of one of the oldest sea ports.

The inception of the Bangladesh Marine Academy at Chattogram in 1962, during the time of the Pakistani Government, marked a pivotal moment in meeting the demands of mariners and engineers. The academy was established with a dual focus on preserving the ancient wooden shipbuilding heritage and embracing modern ocean-going shipbuilding techniques.

Following the nation's independence, the visionary leader, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recognized the imperative need for modernized mariner training. Under the "Development of Marine Academy (1973-1980)" initiative, he re-established the "Bangladesh Marine Academy" to meet these demands.

Subsequently, Bangladesh Marine Academy, Barishal, was established as part of the broader project "Establishment of 04 marine academies" to address the growing demand for skilled mariners. The academy, alongside three others in Rangpur, Pabna, and Sylhet, was inaugurated on May 6, 2021, by the Honorable Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. It plays a vital role in shaping the future leaders of the merchant marine industry, with a dedicated focus on two key segments: the Nautical Department and the Marine Engineering Department."