(NEWS) Malmö Class of 2025 Inauguration

September

2024

Malmö Class of 2025 Inauguration

The inauguration of the World Maritime University’s (WMU) Class of 2025 in the Malmö MSc in Maritime Affairs took place on 23 September in the Sasakawa Auditorium. The Class includes 129 students from 53 countries with an enrolment of 51 women which maintains last year’s record enrolment of women at 40 percent of the intake.

In his welcome remarks, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., President of WMU, spoke of his own experience as a WMU student and how he applied the invaluable knowledge and global network gained at WMU to his career in the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard, successively as a WMU faculty member, as head of the Philippines Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and now as President of WMU. He emphasized that it is not the titles that are important, but rather making the best possible contribution in whichever position of responsibility the future holds. “[At WMU] Your knowledge of the maritime and oceans fields will be massively increased. Your knowledge of our world and its inhabitants will be transformed. You will grow in both ability and confidence, and in turn your growth will transform others,” said President Mejia.

In a pre-recorded address, Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Chancellor of WMU and Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) spoke of the unique relationship between IMO and WMU from which the University has evolved into a centre of excellence that continues to shape the future of maritime governance. He encouraged the students to approach their studies with curiosity and an open mind, and to immerse themselves in the multi-cultural environment that will ultimately provide an invaluable international network that will benefit their careers.

Mr Hans Christna Seim, CEO of the Norwegian Hull Club was the guest speaker. He spoke of the difference that people make in an organization, and encouraged the new students to embrace the multi-cultural experience of WMU to make important connections that will benefit them both personally and professionally.

Ms Carina Nilsson, Chair of the Malmö City Council, welcomed the students on behalf of the City. She spoke of the shared focus of WMU and the City of Malmö regarding commitments to sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. She also highlighted that with a maritime history and citizens from roughly 180 countries today, Malmö is a fitting home to the University.

Professor Jens-Uwe Schröder-Hinrichs, Vice President (Academic) 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. Further, Professor Schröder-Hinrichs highlighted that the incoming class includes 63 students from Africa, 49 from Asia, 13 from the Americas, 26 from Oceania, and 2 from Europe, with strong delegations from Nigeria, China, the Philippines, and Ghana. 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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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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Marine litter poses significant threats to Caribbean Small Island Developing States, affecting marine ecosystems, tourism, fisheries and other local economies, and the health of the communities. My choice to focus on this crisis was driven by the urgency to shed light on its magnitude, propose sustainable solutions, and advocate for more global efforts in addressing this pressing environmental issue.

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Gender equality in ocean science for sustainable development

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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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