WMU and AHHIC Cooperate on Marine Insurance
The World Maritime University (WMU), founded by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), has widened its focus to include the marine hull and machinery insurance sector for the first time, thanks to a new cooperation with American Hellenic Hull Insurance Company (AHHIC).
On the occasion of Maritime Cyprus 2019, hosted by the Deputy Ministry of Shipping and the Government of Cyprus, the World Maritime University and American Hellenic Hull Insurance Company signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of marine insurance. The WMU and AHHIC recognize their mutual interest in the field of maritime and oceans, development and expertise and protection of the marine environment. A marine insurance postgraduate diploma, professional development courses, and marine insurance related events were among the areas of agreement between the WMU and AHHIC.
Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, WMU President, hailed the signing of the MoU: “It is an honor for me being here to sign the first MoU of its kind in the field of marine insurance with American Hellenic Hull, subsidiary of the American P&I Club. I am very delighted that we will support each other in terms of education. The WMU is founded by the IMO, with the mandate as an education, research and capacity-building institution for the Maritime and Oceans community. It is very important for us to cooperate with American Hellenic Hull supporting our students to enhance their knowledge in the field of marine insurance. By supporting WMU, AHHIC also supports the IMO in the effective implementation of regulations and compliance in areas of importance. International conventions must not only be signed and ratified, they must also be effectively implemented in law and in practice. This will ensure that the maritime industry will continue to be the engine to secure and drive the world economy, with 80% of world trade being carried by sea”.
Ms. Natasa Pilides, Shipping Deputy Minister of the Republic of Cyprus underlined: “It is great honour to have you all here special thanks to your participation at the Maritime Cyprus 2019 Conference and Exhibition. We appreciate that American Hellenic Hull is a really important company within the Cyprus maritime cluster. We wish to thank AHHIC for its support of Maritime Cyprus 2019 as a gold sponsor, and its initiative to sign this MoU, within its framework. The Shipping Deputy Ministry places great focus on education and wishes to create an environment in which young executives are nurtured and developed professionally in such a way as to expand the expertise available within our maritime cluster. The MoU signed today will contribute in this direction and we are looking forward to its implementation”.
Mr. Philippos Philis, President of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, addressed the Signing Ceremony stating at the same time the important role of education and expertise to the young talent who lead the future of shipping.
Mr. Ilias Tsakiris, CEO of American Hellenic Hull Insurance Company, stated: “AHHIC is striving to promote Cyprus as a world center not only for shipping, but also for education and excellence. In cooperation with the American P&I Club, American Hellenic Hull, would like to extend that this cooperation with the World Maritime University will provide a curriculum to young executives that will be the next decision makers in our industry. We wish to facilitate their education as part of the Cypriot Maritime Cluster. Furthermore, we would like to invite WMU to increase its presence in Cyprus, bearing in mind Cyprus’ tradition as a maritime nation. The Minister and the Government are trying to enhance education within the maritime cluster and we wish that the WMU will endorse their efforts for a better global maritime community”.
The MOU shall have a duration of five (5) years.

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.

I was primarily attracted to WMU for its prestigious standing as a globalleader in maritime education and research. The institution's emphasis onsustainability and its diverse international student body were particularlyappealing. My research, which focuses on the transition of ports toward low andnear-zero carbon emissions, perfectly aligns with WMU's dedication tosustainable maritime practices. This common vision made WMU the ideal choicefor advancing my academic and professional aspirations in the maritimeindustry.
A significant highlight of my timeat WMU has been the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with a diverse groupof experts and peers from various corners of the globe. This internationalenvironment has broadened my perspective on maritime issues and fostered a richexchange of ideas. It has been a rewarding experience to engage in discussions,share insights, and work collectively toward innovative solutions to complexmaritime challenges.
Post-graduation, I am committed toapplying the knowledge and research expertise I've acquired at WMU to make ameaningful impact in the maritime sector. My plans involve activelycontributing to the sustainable transformation of the industry by focusing onthe implementation of greener and more efficient port operations. I aim to playa part in fostering a cleaner and more sustainable future for ports andshipping on a global scale.

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.
