(NEWS) Two WMU Students Receive BIC Scholarship Awards

September

2015

Two WMU Students Receive BIC Scholarship Awards

This year’s graduate scholarship awards made by the Bureau International des Containers et de Transport Intermodal (BIC) have both been awarded to WMU students. Ms. Fatoumatta Cassama of Gambia who is completing her MSc in Maritime Safety and Environmental Administration, and Mr. Usman Saroni of Indonesia who is completing his MSc in Shipping Management and Logistics, will each receive 1500 euros to help pay for their studies.

The scholarship programme was inaugurated this year to help support the container industry’s leaders of tomorrow and to encourage continued focus on safety, security, standardization and sustainability in the intermodal container industry. Eligibility was extended to university and maritime academy students enrolled in a programme related to intermodal or marine transportation as well as naval architecture and engineering students focusing on container technology. Candidates were judged on the basis of academic achievement as well as an essay related to container safety, security, standardization or sustainability. Five undergraduate and two graduate awards were available for 2015.

BIC was founded in 1933 as a neutral, non-profit, international organization. The BIC’s mission is to promote the expansion of safe, secure, sustainable intermodal transportation. Since 1972 the BIC has been the official registration organization for international container owner prefixes, commonly known as BIC Codes. Now in its ninth decade of service to the transportation industry, the BIC continues to provide a vital link between its 2000+ members and standards bodies, authorities and other international organizations. For more information visit www.bic-code.org

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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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