(NEWS) MoU with International Sailing Schools Association

October

2023

MoU with International Sailing Schools Association

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The World Maritime University (WMU) and the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the aim to promote academic, educational, training, consultancy and research exchange between the two institutions in the maritime, oceans and yachting fields.

The MoU was signed by WMU President, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia and ISSA President, Mr Tomasz Lipski, at WMU headquarters on 1 September. ISSA Vice President, Mr Assaad Rayess, attended the signing ceremony. The new agreement forms a strategic development as it ushers a collaborative agenda where WMU will advise and assist ISSA in developing curricula for the sailing and yachting industry. It also paves the way for helping ISSA navigate through the international legal and regulatory framework governing pleasure craft, including education and training standards. An action plan will ensue from the signing of the MOU with a view to setting in motion the collaborative work between WMU and ISSA.

ISSA’s mission is to promote yachting, educate the wider population about water sports, standardize training worldwide, and facilitate the exchange of cultural experiences, with safety being the main priority. The expertise and networking of WMU have been sought to help ISSA in its efforts to lobby for harmonization of standards pertaining to sailing and yachting education and training, licensing, and operations.

About WMU

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

About ISSA
The International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) was founded in 1969 on the initiative of several national sailing federations. ISSA is a non-profit international association which provides a framework of common standards of quality and safety for sailing and windsurfing schools throughout the world. The ISSA standards apply equally to the certification of students completing sailing, power-boating and windsurfing courses at all levels of ability. All ISSA instructors are trained to the same levels of competence.

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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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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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