(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

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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.

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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.

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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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Post-graduation, my professional trajectory, initially aimed singularly at university teaching in Grenada, has evolved to include curricula development on marine conservation topics at various educational levels, aspiring to inspire the next generation. While my zeal for academia remains steadfast, my aspirations have broadened to encompass policy advocacy. My research, highlighting the striking linkages between marine litter and the overarching climate crisis, has fortified my resolve to employ these insights toward tangible change. Now, as I pivot towards a more policy-oriented role, I aim to work collaboratively with policymakers. My focus will be on underlining the Caribbean's unique environmental challenges, advocating for climate compensation, and concurrently influencing educational approaches on marine issues.

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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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