A significant event for Kazakhstan’s maritime industry: Aiganim Akylova, a graduate and instructor at the Kazakh-British Technical University (KBTU) Kazakhstan Maritime Academy (KMA), has become the first Kazakhstani sailor to receive the prestigious Dutch Certificate of Competency (COC). This certificate, issued by the Netherlands, allows her to work under the Dutch flag, highlighting the high quality of maritime education at KMA KBTU.

Previously, obtaining the Dutch Certificate of Competency by Kazakhstani sailors was considered nearly impossible due to the strict standards set by European authorities. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Kazakhstan Maritime Academy over the past three years, international recognition has been achieved not only from the flags of the Marshall Islands and Panama but now, for the first time, from the Netherlands.

This success demonstrates the high standards of KMA’s educational programs, which are now recognized throughout Europe. Aiganim Akylova’s achievement symbolizes the academy’s progress, and it is expected that a direct agreement between Kazakhstan and the Netherlands will be established in the near future. Such a partnership would simplify the recognition of Kazakhstani sailors under the European flag, opening new opportunities for maritime professionals from Kazakhstan.