(NEWS) WMU Class of 2023 Graduations

August

2023

Celebrating the Maritime Safety and Environment Management (MSEM) and International Transportation and Logistics (ITL) Class of 2023 Graduations

The Class of 2023 celebrated their graduation from the China-based Master of Science in Maritime Affairs specializations in Maritime Safety and Environment Management (MSEM) and International Transportation and Logistics (ITL) on 29 and 30 July, respectively. Seventy-nine students were bestowed MSc degrees, marking a total of 1,240 students who have graduated from these two programmes since their inception in 2005.

Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, President of WMU, addressed the graduates at the ceremonies and acknowledged the extraordinary challenges these students overcame due to the severe pandemic control measures during the first half of their studies. He emphasized that these challenges have nurtured their resilience, shaping them into strong professionals. "The challenges you have faced will undoubtedly contribute to your ability to make significant contributions to your respective industries, your homeland, and the global maritime transportation sector at large. I am entirely confident that you will not only fulfill your professional aspirations but also exceed your own expectations. In the future, you will take pride in being a part of the expanding global network of WMU alumni, just as WMU is proud to welcome you into our family," he said.

ITL Class of 2023 Graduation, Shanghai

The 2023 graduation ceremony of WMU’s MSc in Maritime Affairs specialization in International Transport and Logistics (ITL) took place in Shanghai, China on 29 July. Thirty-two graduates, all from China, celebrated the completion of their studies. This marked the first fully in-person graduation ceremony since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Professor SHI Xin,Vice President of Shanghai Maritime University (SMU), congratulated the graduates in his address. He encouraged the new graduates to leverage their acquired knowledge to further develop the shipping industry, focusing particularly on challenges related to decarbonization and digitalization. Other notable attendees included Professor MA Shuo, Vice President (International) of WMU, Professor RUAN Wei, the Director of SMU’s International Office, and Associate Professor CHEN Gang of WMU, along with other SMU faculty members who contributed to the delivery of the ITL programme.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Ms. CHEN Yijie expressed gratitude to both WMU and SMU, as well as the faculty and staff, for their exceptional contribution to the programme's delivery. Ms. PU Yuxin was honoured with the Chancellor's Medal for Academic Excellence.

The ITL programme commenced in 2005 and is offered in cooperation with Shanghai Maritime University. To date, there are 557 graduates from the programme. To learn more about the MSc in Maritime Affairs specialization in International Transport and Logistics offered in Shanghai, click here.

WMU ITL Class of 2023 Graduation, Shanghai, China

MSEM Class of 2023 Graduation, Dalian

The 2023 graduation ceremony for the WMU MSc in Maritime Affairs specialization in Maritime Safety and Environmental Management (MSEM), took place in Dalian, China on 30 July. Forty-seven graduates, all from China, were honoured at the first fully in-person graduation ceremony since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Professor MA Shuo, Vice President (International) of WMU moderated the ceremony. Dr ZHAO Youtao, Vice President of Dalian Maritime University (DMU), addressed the graduates, lauding their achievements and encouraging them to utilize their newly acquired knowledge to foster safer, cleaner, and more sustainable shipping practices. Mr. ZHAI Jiugang, Director-General level supervisor of the China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA), also extended his congratulations to the graduates.

The ceremony was also attended by WMU Professor Emeritus Proshanto Mukherjee, Associate Professor CHEN Gang from WMU, Dr. ZHANG Jinlei, Dean of the DMU College of International Collaboration, Professor MA Mingfei, Mr. SHAO Guang, Associate Professor HE Jiantong, Associate Professor ZHAO Jian, as well as DMU faculty and staff involved with the MSEM programme. Representatives from various MSA offices and family members of the graduates also attended the event.

Mr. HE Jing received the Chancellor's Medal for Academic Excellence, and Mr. HE Jing and Mr. JIN Lei received DMU’s Best Dissertations Prize. The MSEM Spirit Award was awarded to Mr. XU Hongda and Mr. WEI Shiwei. Representing the graduates and the current students, Mr. JIN Lei spoke on behalf of the MSEM Class of 2023 and Mr. ZHAO Xinglin for the MSEM Class of 2024.

The MSEM programme commenced in 2005 and is offered in cooperation with Dalian Maritime University. To date, 683 graduates have completed the MSEM programme. To learn more about the MSEM programme offered in Dalian, click here.

WMU MSEM Class of 2023 Graduation, Dalian, China

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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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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.

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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.

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