(NEWS) WMU Welcomes Class of 2027: Record Enrolment and First Female Majority

September

2026

WMU Welcomes Class of 2027: Record Enrolment and First Female Majority

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The inauguration of the World Maritime University’s (WMU) Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs Class of 2027 took place on 21 September in the Sasakawa Auditorium. The new cohort comprises a record 145 students from 50 countries, making it the largest class in the Malmö programme’s history. For the first time, women make up the majority of the cohort, representing 52 per cent of the Class of 2027. Following the selection, funding and admission process, fewer than 23 per cent of those who applied for this year’s programme joined the Malmö Class of 2027.

WMU President Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr. welcomed the Class, highlighting the significance of the University’s largest class and first majority of women. Reflecting on his own experience as a WMU graduate, he encouraged the students to make the most of the academic, field study and international experiences that await them during their time at WMU. He also highlighted the impact of the global WMU alumni community and the opportunities for students to build relationships that will extend throughout their professional lives.

In a video message, Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Chancellor of WMU and Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), welcomed the students to WMU. He highlighted the University’s establishment by IMO 43 years ago and its role in supporting the Organization’s capacity development goals by educating future leaders in maritime and ocean affairs. He encouraged the students to approach their studies with purpose and critical thinking and to make the most of the opportunity to learn from experts and peers from diverse backgrounds.

Mr Masafumi Shukuri, Chairman of the Japan Maritime Centre (JMC), was the guest speaker. Drawing from his extensive public service experience in Japan, he reflected on the borderless nature of shipping and its role in connecting continents, cultures and communities. He noted a parallel with WMU, highlighting the University’s international community as an example of the connections and collaboration that underpin the maritime sector.

WMU Vice President (Provost), Professor Michael Ekow Manuel, welcomed the students and introduced the Heads of each Specialization and respective faculty members, noting that the faculty and staff as a team can be relied on to support the students during their time at WMU. Professor Manuel highlighted that the incoming class includes 66 students from Africa, 56 from Asia, 13 from the Americas, eight from Oceania and two from Europe, with strong delegations from Nigeria, China and Indonesia.

With separate inspirational messages, representatives of the Class of 2026 from Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania also welcomed the Class of 2027. Music for the event was provided by the Carlberg Heijkenskjöld Duo.

About the Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs

The 14-month MSc in Maritime Affairs programme in Malmö was established in 1983. It emphasizes the practical application of expertise, offering both an overview of the complex, inter-related maritime and ocean fields, as well as the opportunity to specialize. The programme is designed to respond directly to the real needs of the maritime industry, and to equip graduates with the skills needed today and in the future. It is academically challenging and professionally oriented, and is designed for ambitious, mid-career maritime professionals. It provides a particularly strong foundation for those intending to move into either a national or an international career. To learn more about the Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs, click here.

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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 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

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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A Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards