(NEWS) Malmö Class of 2024 Inauguration - Record Enrolment of Women

September

2023

Malmö Class of 2024 Inauguration - Record Enrolment of Women

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Inauguration of the World Maritime University’s (WMU) Class of 2024 in the Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs, took place on 18 September in the Sasakawa Auditorium. The Class includes 130 students from 48 countries with a record enrolment of 52 women comprising 40 percent of the intake.

In his welcome remarks, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., President of WMU, spoke of the WMU vision - To inspire leadership and innovation for a sustainable maritime and oceans future - noting that upon graduation, the students would return to their home countries prepared with the knowledge to be agents of sustainable change in the maritime and oceans sectors. He spoke of his own career path from WMU graduate in 1994 to serving in the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard, joining the WMU faculty, heading the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) of the Philippines, and now becoming the first WMU graduate to lead the University.

“I wanted to share my story to offer an example of how the University works towards cultivating future talents and empowering you to be the best maritime and oceans leaders of the future that you can be. But keep in mind that the goal is not about attaining positions such as President or Director-General, or Secretary-General, Minister, or Prime Minister. The goal is for you to give the best possible contribution you can in whichever position of responsibility you may find yourself,” said President Mejia.

Guest Speaker, Mr Andreas Nordseth, Director-General of the Danish Maritime Authority and member of the WMU Board of Governors addressed the gathering. He emphasized that the shipping industry is on the brink of transformative changes with the challenges faced by the climate crisis, the shift to climate neutral shipping, and the need to find sustainable solutions. He said, “We must not overlook the need for individuals who can design and implement the framework of the future. That includes rules, regulations, standards, training programmes, and educational processes. This requires individuals with the right skills, and competencies, particularly leadership abilities, and not least the vision to design what works for the future… If you seize this opportunity [at WMU] you will hold the keys to how we confront the challenges of the future.”

Closing remarks were made by Professor Jens-Uwe Schröder-Hinrichs, WMU Vice President (Academic Affairs) who emphasized the diversity of the incoming class of students that includes 59 students from Africa, 48 from Asia, 13 from Latin America and the Caribbean, 6 from Oceania, and 4 from Northern Africa and the Middle East, with strong delegations from Nigeria, the Philippines, Kenya and Ghana. He commented on the unique nature of the Malmö MSc programme that has such a diverse mix of different nationalities in one programme, which is in the true spirit of the United Nations.

To learn more about the Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs, click here.

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

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The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards