(NEWS) IMO Visiting Lecturers on Member State and Maritime Administration Obligations

February

2022

IMO Visiting Lecturers on Member State and Maritime Administration Obligations

MSEA and MLP students learn from IMO experts, Mr Brice Martin-Castex and Mrs Leedwine David Pichon.

Among maritime universities, the World Maritime University (WMU) has an unprecedented connection to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). WMU is established within the framework of the IMO, and WMU students have exceptional opportunities to interact with IMO experts who share their knowledge and expertise as visiting lecturers, complementing the core instruction by resident faculty. IMO experts recently provided lectures relating to the IMO Member State Obligations course in the Maritime Safety and Environmental Administration (MSEA) specialization, as well as the course on Introduction to Roles and Obligations of Maritime Administrations for the Maritime Law & Policy Specialization (MLP).

Experts from IMO’s Department for Member State Audit and Implementation Support included Mr Brice Martin-Castex, Acting Head, and Mrs Leedwine David Pichon, Implementation Support Officer, interacted with the MSEA and MLP students on 27 January. Mrs David Pichon delivered two different lectures via video conferencing on the subject of Casualty Investigation and IMO GISIS Database for students in the MSEA, and MLP specializations. Mr Martin-Castex provided the introductory remarks and contributed insights to the topic throughout the discussions.

The content of the lectures focused on the importance of reporting on marine casualty investigation as well as with respect to the legislative framework. The role of IMO was addressed in terms of the analysis of the casualty investigation reports referring to lessons learnt as well as integration in the rulemaking process. Available reporting tools and database exchange protocols were also discussed.

Dr Sascha Pristrom, Technical Officer for IMO’s Subdivision for Marine Technology and Cargoes, addressed the MSEA students on 2 February. Dr Pristrom presented about IMO Goal-based standards (GBS) relating to standards and procedures that are required to be met through regulations, rules and standards for ships. Insights provided by Dr Pristrom included the development, verification, implementation and monitoring of GBS as well as the principles, history and concept of GBS construction standards. Specific examples discussed included the IMO Polar Code, the IGF Code and GBS for bulk carriers and oil tankers.

Mrs Tatjana Krilic, Head, Member State Audits for the IMO Department for Member State Audit and Implementation Support, addressed the MSEA and MLP students on 3 February regarding Insights on the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). Mrs Krilic presented the background and evolution of IMSAS and discussed the experience of member States, audits, and auditors. Using examples of current audit work, she presented the challenges faced regarding the implementation of IMSAS as well as the lessons learned.

The Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs is a 14-month programme with seven specializations: Maritime Education & Training; Maritime Energy Management; Maritime Law & Policy; Maritime Safety & Environmental Administration; Ocean Sustainability, Governance and Management; Port Management, and Shipping Management & Logistics. Foundation studies are taught in the first term and cover the introductory knowledge that is fundamental to all activities in the maritime field. Three successive terms focus on specialization studies and a dissertation. WMU has more than 150 Visiting Lecturers annually from around the world who contribute their expertise to enrich the education of WMU students.

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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 influenced by my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initially introduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education, WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional quality of education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became a compelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student. Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutional offerings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at this esteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals.

My research explored the theoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis on maritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the study conducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritime governance—specifically, the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affect the implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, the research aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmly anchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling the intricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMO instruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivated by a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies in maritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of a scarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in the existing body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration, underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area of maritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarly research.

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

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

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Post-graduation, my professional trajectory, initially aimed singularly at university teaching in Grenada, has evolved to include curricula development on marine conservation topics at various educational levels, aspiring to inspire the next generation. While my zeal for academia remains steadfast, my aspirations have broadened to encompass policy advocacy. My research, highlighting the striking linkages between marine litter and the overarching climate crisis, has fortified my resolve to employ these insights toward tangible change. Now, as I pivot towards a more policy-oriented role, I aim to work collaboratively with policymakers. My focus will be on underlining the Caribbean's unique environmental challenges, advocating for climate compensation, and concurrently influencing educational approaches on marine issues.

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I have had a fantastic journey and an incredible and rewarding experience at WMU. Studying here came with many blessings and was one of the best decisions I have ever made. First, my supervisors were resourceful, outstanding and very supportive, who dedicated their time to mentor and guide my research work. Their guidance, advice, motivation, kindness, understanding and support were instrumental and helped me achieve my academic goals to reach where I am today. Second, the university has a strong family bond, is well-organized, and embraces teamwork, and I received immense support from the GOI and WMU secretariat. Also, I managed to interact with many students from different nationalities, exchanged ideas and discovered/learned a lot of things from the various cultures, especially during the annual celebration of the WMU International Day, made new friends from around the world, expanded my network and immensely improved my global view.

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

My research focus during my tenure at WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions in the maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures, including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held great appeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practical experience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorous academic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherently dynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeply convinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute to enhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencing positive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends in the maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background, served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

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Upon graduation, I was awarded a prestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit of net-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University of Southampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the next phase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed to continuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building upon the invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. My primary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of the zero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within our global community.

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