(NEWS) Transport Canada and WMU partner to support Canada’s Ocean Protection Plan

November

2017

Transport Canada and WMU partner to support Canada’s Ocean Protection Plan

On 27 October, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Ottawa by Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University (WMU), and Ms. Lori MacDonald, Assistant Deputy Minister, Safety and Security, Transport Canada (TC). The MoU sets out the framework under which WMU will complete research for a comparative study of marine medical certificate issuance that supports TC’s review of related regulations and policy framework under Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan. The MoU signing was witnessed by WMU Professor Neil Bellefontaine, Vice President (Academic) and Dr. Lawrence Hildebrand, Professor, Canadian Chair and Head of Ocean Sustainability, Governance and Management.

“WMU has long-standing ties with Transport Canada and we are pleased to strengthen our relationship further by conducting this important research that supports the health and well-being of seafarers. They are the life-blood of an essential global industry, with 90% of world trade carried by sea,” stated President Doumbia-Henry.

“The findings of this research by the World Maritime University will greatly benefit Canada’s work towards enhancing marine safety under the Oceans Protection Plan,” added Ms. MacDonald.

TC, with Environment and Climate Change Canada, has provided long-standing support to WMU, with the establishment of the Canadian Professorial Chair in Marine Environment Protection in 2006. In addition, TC has supported WMU research, as well as field studies to Canada for WMU students, and has sent senior members of its staff to WMU as visiting professors and speakers for events such as the International Conference on Safe and Sustainable Shipping in a Changing Arctic Environment (ShipArc 2015).

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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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