(NEWS) MoU and Agreement Signed with Sharjah Maritime Academy Advances Maritime Education and Research

November

2025

MoU and Agreement Signed with Sharjah Maritime Academy Advances Maritime Education and Research

‍

On 12 November, the World MaritimeUniversity (WMU) and Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as well as a Collaborative Activities Agreement to advance global maritime research and academic programmes. The documents were signed by Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr., President of WMU, and Dr. Hashim Abdullah bin Sharhan Al Zaabi, Chancellor of SMA.

“This important partnership reflects the commitment of both WMU and SMA to advancing sustainable maritime development through cutting-edge research and global collaboration,” said President Mejia.“Working closely with Sharjah Maritime Academy will provide an opportunity to deepen our academic impact and support the professional development of maritime leaders in the Gulf region and strengthen our engagement with a region that is increasingly shaping the future of global shipping.”

Chancellor Alzaabi said, “This Memorandum of Understanding marks a strategic milestone for SMA — enabling us to forge global partnerships that strengthen our research and education capacity, preparing our graduates not only to support the UAE’s maritime ambitions, but to lead the transformation of the blue economy with innovation and purpose.Through this collaboration, we are laying the foundation for high-impact academic programmes, joint research initiatives and international teaching exchanges — all aimed at developing maritime professionals who are grounded inUAE industry realities and empowered with global competence.”

The MoU establishes a framework for long-term collaboration in maritime research, education, training, and capacity development. To support the practical implementation of this commitment, the accompanying Collaborative Activities Agreement outlines a joint program of academic and research initiatives scheduled for launch during 2025 and 2026. Under the Agreement, SMA and WMU will cooperate on three joint research projects addressing:

● Informal sail-powered maritime transport in the Indian Ocean (The Dhow Project)

● Global seafarer supply, training, and workforce planning (The Seafarer Supply Project)

● Enhancing maritime traffic safety through proactive risk-based models (Proactive Maritime Traffic ManagementProject)

This strategic cooperation strengthens the shared mission of WMU and SMA to advance maritime knowledge, foster innovation, and support the global maritime sector through research-led education.

‍

About the World Maritime University

The World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö,Sweden is established within the framework of the International MaritimeOrganization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The mission ofWMU is to be the world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and oceanseducation, professional training and research, while building global capacityand promoting sustainable development. WMU’s vision is to inspire leadershipand innovation for a sustainable maritime and oceans future. WMU is anorganization by and for the international maritime community and is committedto the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

About the Sharjah Maritime Academy
Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA)was established in 2023 under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan binMuhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Locatedin Khorfakkan, SMA is supported by the UAE Ministry of Education and the Ministryof Energy and Infrastructure.

SMA is the onlyhigher education institution in the UAE offering Commission for AcademicAccreditation (CAA)-accredited maritime bachelor’s degrees. As an AccreditedTraining Provider by the National Qualifications Centre (NQC), SMA deliversinternationally recognized Certificates of Competency (CoC) in accordance with InternationalMaritime Organization (IMO) standards.

Equipped withadvanced simulation facilities and led by internationally experienced trainers,SMA prepares graduates with the academic knowledge and practical skillsrequired to excel in the maritime sector.

‍

Related Documents

No items found.

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.

‍

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of 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.

‍

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards