(NEWS) Sasakawa Fellowship Students Japan Field Study

June

2014

Sasakawa Fellowship Students Japan Field Study

The Nippon Foundation has hosted week-long field studies to Japan for Sasakawa Fellowship Students since 1993. The current 22 Sasakawa Fellowship Students made the annual trip from 11-18 May. The program was arranged by Mr. Eisuke Kudo, Special Advisor of the Ocean Policy Research Foundation (OPRF) and Mr. Shinichi Ichikawa, Section Chief of the Maritime Affairs Division at OPRF, and included visits to the following: Ministry of Infrastructure, Land, Transport and Tourism; The Nippon Foundation; Maritime Bureau; Research Institute of Maritime Engineering; Mizushima Industrial Complex; Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Mizushima Plant; Hyogo Earthquake Engineering Research Center; Marine Technical College; Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. Kobe Works; and the Kobe Port.

A highlight was the opportunity for the students to meet Dr. Sasakawa at The Nippon Foundation. Each student had the opportunity to report on their study at WMU and to thank Dr. Sasakawa personally for funding their WMU education. In addition there was an opportunity to meet with the Friends of WMU Japan and network with supporters of WMU as well as alumni. The students were accompanied by The Nippon Foundation Chair, Associate Professor Michael Manuel, and Lecturer Momoko Kitada.

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

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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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