About Sams
Who we are
SAMS– Southern Academy of Maritime Studies, started by Shri Vekkaliamman Educational Trust was born out of dream from a Mariner, the Chairman of the Trust. The Institute has entered its 25th year of establishment this year. Even though SAMS had a modest beginning offering STCW courses in the beginning, the Institute grew steadily, but strongly. Now SAMS is one of the premier Marine Institutes in the country, offering various Marine courses.
The Institute is situated in a serene and sprawling 10 acres campus of lush green on the Chennai-Tirupathi highway, just an hour from the heart of the city, with a built up area of 2 lakh sq.ft comprising of excellent infrastructure, Workshops, Labs, Ship-in-Campus, Auditorium, Gym, Recreation facilities, state of art Class rooms, living rooms etc. Along with its highly qualified and dedicated faculties the Institute provides an excellent atmosphere for learning and grooming for engineering professionals.
Our Excellence
The Southern Academy of Maritime Studies, conceived by a visionary mariner who serves as the Group’s Chairman, has thrived for 25 years. Starting with humble STCW courses, the institute has experienced steady and robust growth.
Our Key People
Mr. M. Karthikeyan
CHAIRMAN, CEO
Mr. Karthikeyan, a business management postgraduate and former Radio Officer, has vast experience with companies like Essar, Univan, Blue Marine, and Chettinad. He is the founder and current Chairman & CEO of SAMS Group, bringing strong leadership and industry knowledge to the maritime education and training sector.
Mrs. Rajameenakshi Padmanabhan
JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR
Mrs. Padmanabhan holds a management postgraduate degree and has 30+ years of experience in the shipping sector. She has worked with multiple multinational firms and brings in-depth expertise in operations, organizational systems, quality management, playing a key role in strategic growth and direction at SAMS Group.
Mr. A. R. Krishnamurthy
DIRECTOR
Mr. Krishnamurthy, a commerce graduate with ICWA (Inter), has over 18 years of experience in finance and accounts. Associated with SAMS since 2001, he contributes to the financial stability and operational management of the institution with his expertise in accounting and long-standing commitment to the group's objectives.
Mr. K.V. Sarveswaran
DIRECTOR
A former civil servant, Mr. Sarveswaran specializes in public finance, law, and compliance. He represented India in global social security negotiations and was a trustee of the Seamen’s Provident Fund. He supports SAMS with governance experience and educational policy insights gained through years of administrative and legal service.
Captain Gopinath
PRINCIPAL
Captain Gopinath, a Master Mariner with 25+ years at sea and 11 years in command, holds an MBA in Shipping and Logistics. He is an ISO Lead Auditor and educator at SAMS since 2009, contributing marine expertise, academic leadership, and professional training aligned with international shipping and maritime standards.
Our Colleges
Southern Academy of Maritime Studies
(Approved by DG Shipping, Ministry of Shipping Govt. Of India) DGS Approved MTI No. 402016 (Affiliated to Alagappa University , IMU- Chennai)
Sams College of Engineering and Technology
(Approved by DG Shipping, Ministry of Shipping Govt. Of India) (Approved by AICTE, Affiliated with Anna University)