(NEWS) President Reports to IMO Council 2022

December

2022

President Reports to IMO Council 2022

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President Doumbia-Henry reports to IMO Council, and meets with WMU graduates in attendance.

On 2 December, Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University (WMU), addressed the 128th session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council to report on the activities of the University. The 128th Council session was held at IMO from 28 November to 2 December.

President Doumbia-Henry reported on the University's operations during 2021 and on salient decisions of the WMU Board of Governors during its fortieth session held virtually in May 2022. The President’s report provided detailed information relating to governance, funding, academic, administrative and partnership matters and showcased the University's work and deep commitment to the maritime community and IMO's goals.

The President’s remarks confirmed that despite the difficulties of the Covid-19 pandemic, the University unwaveringly delivered its mandate throughout the pandemic utilizing virtual teaching as required. With the recent graduation of the Class of 2022, the total number of WMU graduates stands at over 5,800 from 170 countries and territories.

A major achievement highlighted was the accreditation of WMU degrees by the Government of Sweden effective 1 January 2022. President Doumbia-Henry thanked all parties involved, particularly the Government of Sweden and IMO for their support. The accreditation in WMU’s host country further enhances the University's global status, in addition to the accreditation by ZEvA (Zentrale Evaluations- und Akkreditierungsagentur Hannover/Central Evaluation and Accreditation Agency Hanover, Germany), and allows all member States to proceed with the recognition of the WMU degrees under their national legislation.

President Doumbia-Henry reported on enhanced cooperation with IMO, particularly the development of IMO e-learning courses, the latest of which was launched during the 72nd session of IMO’s Technical Cooperation Committee. It was also noted that despite the limitations of the pandemic, in 2021 the University established 11 new partnership agreements and organized or co-hosted 12 national and international events and conferences both in person and in virtual mode. President Doumbia-Henry noted that 2023 marks the 40th anniversary of WMU, since IMO established the University in 1983, and that information about a series of events and an international conference will be available on the WMU website in due course.

In reiterating the importance of donations to the financial stability of the University to support providing high level education and training required by member States, President Doumbia-Henry extended thanks to all donors with particular mention of the Government of Sweden including the City of Malmö, The Nippon Foundation, the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), the Republic of Korea, Canada, China, Germany, Thailand, Cyprus, Turkish Shipbuilders' Association, the United States Friends of WMU, Australia and the Bahamas for their financial support in 2021. Major donors for fellowships in the reporting period included The Sasakawa Peace Foundation/Nippon Foundation, the IMO Global Capacity Building and Training Programme, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Australia, ITF Seafarersʹ Trust, Germany, TK Foundation, The Orient’s Fond (Denmark), the United Kingdom, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Stena Rederi AB, the Grimaldi Foundation, Gard A/S, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Maritime and Port Authority Academy Singapore, Norwegian Cruise line Holdings, Norwegian Seafarers' Union and the World Nuclear Transport Institute.

President Doumbia-Henry reiterated WMU's commitment to member States and the international maritime community to uphold the University’s leading position as a centre of excellence for advanced maritime education with a focus on capacity building of developing countries in accordance with the IMO goals and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The President appealed to all member States to consider financial support to WMU, whether that means expanding existing contributions or making an initial contribution, to strengthen the University’s financial sustainability and development and also ensure that developing countries which are severely affected by COVID-19 can rebuild as quickly as possible with the skills WMU graduates acquire.

Information about the recent activities of WMU can be found in the 2021 Annual Report available here.

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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