(NEWS) WMU Adopts Strategic Plan from 2016-2019

June

2016

WMU Adopts Strategic Plan from 2016-2019

The World Maritime University (WMU) Strategic Plan 2016-2019 has just been adopted by the University’s Board of Governors at its 34th session on 23-24 May. The Plan outlines the strategic directions and objectives of the University. The Board welcomed the Strategic Plan and thanked the Executive Board, the President, faculty and staff of the University for the four-year strategic framework within which the University would operate.

“This new Strategic Plan provides the whole WMU community with a clear vision for moving forward. It requires the implementation of eight strategic directions and six short and medium-term objectives for the University. It is an ambitious agenda and takes into account recent developments, including the outcome of the Study on the Financial Sustainability of the University that was approved by the Board of Governors and noted by the IMO Council, the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, and the Paris Climate Change Agreement. This agenda for the next four years will ensure that WMU is responsive to the new developments ensuring that its education, research and capacity-building mandate and outcomes respond to the expectations of the maritime and oceans community to which it is dedicated. WMU is a unique academic institution within the UN context at the service of IMO member States and maritime and oceans industry stakeholders, with a strategic outreach to and partnership with business,” stated Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, WMU President.

The Strategic Plan will implement the eight key strategies adopted by the Board of Governors in May 2015 and noted at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council and IMO Assembly in June 2015 and December 2015, respectively. The Strategic Plan includes the University’s expanded mandate to include the oceans, as well as the establishment of an Endowment Fund to spearhead fund-raising activities to ensure its long-term sustainability. The Plan will be re-visited in 2018, to take into account the IMO Strategic Plan 2016-2021.

The Strategic Plan sets out the following eight strategic directions:

Educating and Fostering of Maritime Leaders
Strengthening Teaching of Maritime Policy
Expansion to Oceans related Matters
Strengthening Maritime and Oceans Research
Diversification of Generation of Revenues
New Ways of Collaboration
Further Collaboration with IMO
Establishment of an Endowment Fund

Since 1983, WMU has been at the service of the global maritime community supporting them to ensure safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient and sustainable shipping on clean oceans. This is accomplished through its unique postgraduate educational programme and the cutting edge research undertaken on maritime, environmental and ocean studies. WMU works closely with IMO and maritime and ocean stakeholders, including the maritime industry, national maritime administrations, national maritime academic institutions and NGOs to ensure that its educational programme and research are responsive to its mission and meet the needs of those it serves.

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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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