(NEWS) President Doumbia-Henry Visits EMSA

March

2019

President Doumbia-Henry Visits EMSA

On 1 March, President Doumbia-Henry was welcomed to the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) by Ms Maja Markovčić Kostelac, Executive Director of EMSA. The courtesy visit provided the opportunity to discuss fellowships administered by EMSA and potential areas of cooperation in areas of research and capacity-building.

EMSA officially launched the “European Neighbours Policy” Maritime Fellowships at WMU in early February. The fellowships are provided under the framework of the EU-funded regional projects SAFEMED IV EuroMed Maritime Safety project” and “Maritime safety, security and marine environmental protection in the Black and Caspian Sea Regions” (BCSEA).

The objective of the procedure is to enable staff members from the maritime administrations of beneficiary countries of SAFEMED IV project and the BCSEA project to enrol and attend the 14-month Standard Master Programme in Maritime Affairs (Fellowship) offered by WMU with the financial and managerial support by EMSA. The Agency is funding 8 fellowships (4 for the SAFEMED IV project and 4 for the BCSEA project, maximum one per country). The deadline for applications is 1 April 2019.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange information on areas of interest and ongoing research and development activities in both organizations. WMU introduced the TRANSPORT2040 study on the implications of technology and automation on jobs and employment in the transport sector. WMU also reported about ongoing efforts in areas related to distance and e-learning tools. Both organizations have a strong interest in capacity building in the maritime transport sector and will continue the dialogue in this regard.

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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 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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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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