Kazi Sayed (44E) was promoted as Manager of the Solent Maritime and Research Technology Centre at Southampton Solent University

Kazi Sayed (44E) was promoted as Manager of the Solent Maritime and Research Technology Centre at Southampton Solent University

Heartiest congratulations to Kazi Sayed (44E) on his well-deserved promotion as Manager of the Solent Maritime and Research Technology Centre (SMART Centre) at Southampton Solent University. This remarkable achievement reflects his longstanding dedication to maritime education, technical innovation, and professional excellence.

In his new role as Maritime and Research Technology Centre Manager, he will contribute significantly to advancing applied maritime engineering education under the South Coast Institute of Technology, a prestigious initiative supported by more than £13 million in funding from the UK Department for Education. The scale and ambition of this national-level project underline the importance of his appointment and the confidence placed in his leadership and expertise.

The SMART Centre represents a forward-looking platform designed to prepare the next generation of maritime and engineering professionals through hands-on technical training and research-driven learning. Equipped with modern facilities, including a maritime workshop, power plant systems laboratory, yacht engineering units, mechanical and electrical engineering suites, robotics laboratories, and applied mechanics infrastructure, the centre stands as a hub of innovation and skill development aligned with the evolving needs of the global maritime industry.

Kazi Sayed’s appointment to this leadership role is not only a personal milestone but also a matter of pride for his fellow alumni and professional colleagues. His career trajectory demonstrates how dedication to knowledge, technical competence, and institutional service can meaningfully advance maritime education worldwide. At a time when the maritime sector is undergoing rapid technological transformation, leadership at centres such as SMART is vital for bridging academic training with industry requirements.

His success also highlights the growing role of maritime professionals from our community in shaping global educational institutions and contributing to international centres of excellence. Such achievements inspire younger graduates to pursue careers grounded in innovation, service, and professional integrity.

We take great pride in Kazi Sayed’s accomplishment and extend our warmest wishes for his continued success in this important position. May his leadership at the SMART Centre further strengthen maritime education, foster technological advancement, and create lasting opportunities for future generations of engineers and seafarers.