(NEWS) WMU China Programmes: 20 Year Anniversary, Graduation, and Alumni Association Launch

July

2025

WMU China Programmes: 20 Year Anniversary, Graduation, and Alumni Association Launch

From 23 -25 July, the World Maritime University (WMU) celebrated the graduation ceremonies, and 20 year milestone anniversary, of the two Master of Science (MSc) in Maritime Affairs specializations offered in China. Established in 2005, the International Transport and Logistics (ITL) specialization is delivered in Shanghai in partnership with Shanghai Maritime University (SMU), and the Maritime Safety and Environmental Management (MSEM) specialization is delivered in Dalian in cooperation with Dalian Maritime University (DMU). To date, there are 1,407 graduates since the inception of the programmes.

In conjunction with the anniversary, celebratory events following the graduation ceremonies were held in both Shanghai and Dalian to honor two decades of achievement in capacity development, education and research in service of the maritime community. The celebrations included the launch of China-based alumni associations, and signing of MoUs with SMU and DMU respectively.

In his graduation remarks, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., President of WMU, thanked the academic partners, faculty, staff, and alumni around the world who contributed to the success of the programmes in China over the past two decades. He highlighted the consistent delivery of academic excellence, educating high-impact professionals, and strengthening global capacity in the maritime sector.

In relation to the launch of the alumni association, President Mejia noted a strong personal connection, being a WMU alumnus himself. “WMU gave me the academic foundation, global perspective, and enduring professional values that have guided my journey. To stand before you today as the University’s President and as a fellow graduate is truly one of the greatest honours of my life. I am not only representing WMU’s leadership, I am standing with you, as one of you,” said President Mejia.

WMU was further represented by Professor Daniel Moon, Professor Dong Cheng, Associate Professor Gang Chen, Ms Woo Seung Shin, and Ms Charlotte Wara. WMU Professor Emeritus, Dr Shuo Ma, who initially founded the programmes was also in attendance.

In Dalian, IMO Secretary General Emeritus and former WMU Chancellor Mr. Kitack Lim, the Executive Director of IAMU and WMU Professor (ret.) Takeshi Nakazawa, WMU Professor Emeritus PK Mukherjee, and former Senior Deputy Director of IMO Mr. DU Da-Chang, were in attendance.

The outreach MSc specializations in Shanghai and Dalian were designed specifically for the maritime market in China and to extend WMU’s professional education to a new and thriving clientele from the region and beyond. The programmes have been instrumental in meeting the maritime industry's demand for high level specialized professionals in China’s maritime market. The subjects are taught entirely in English by WMU (75%) and the respective partner (25%) faculty. The entry requirements, grading system and quality assurance processes are those in force at WMU. Successful graduates receive a WMU Master of Science in Maritime Affairs degree. To learn more about the programmes, click here.

ITL Class of 2025 Graduation, Shanghai

The graduation ceremony of WMU’s MSc in Maritime Affairs specialization in International Transport and Logistics (ITL) took place in Shanghai, China on 23 July with a total of 33 graduates, all from China.

Professor YIN Ming, Vice President of Shanghai Maritime University (SMU), delivered a speech and extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduates on their achievement. Former Vice President of SMU Professor GAO De-Yi, and the Head of International Cooperation Department Professor RUAN Wei, as well as the WMU representatives and the SMU faculty involved in the delivery of the ITL programme were also in attendance.

Mr. ZHANG Lei received the Award for Academic Excellence, and Ms. LIU Yang made a speech on behalf of the Class, thanking both WMU and SMU, as well as the faculty and the staff for the excellent delivery of the programme.

To date, the ITL specialization includes 613 graduates from 17 countries. To learn more about the MSc in Maritime Affairs with a specialization in International Transport and Logistics offered in Shanghai, click here.

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MSEM Class of 2025 Graduation, Dalian

The 2025 graduation ceremony of WMU’s MSc in Maritime Affairs specialization in Maritime Safety and Environmental Management (MSEM) took place in Dalian, China on 25 July with a total of 54 graduates, all from China aside from three graduates from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

Professor SHAN Hong-Jun, President of Dalian Maritime University (DMU), congratulated the graduates and expressed gratitude to the faculty and the representatives of China’s Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) attending the graduation ceremony. The WMU representatives and the DMU faculty involved in the delivery of the MSEM programme were also in attendance.

Mr. FANG Xin-Liang received the Award of Academic Excellence and Mr. CHANG Jian made a speech on behalf of the graduating class thanking both WMU and DMU, as well as the faculty and the staff for the excellent delivery of the programme.

To date, 794 graduates from 12 countries have completed the MSEM programme. To learn more about the MSEM specialization offered in Dalian, click here.

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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 influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

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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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

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.

My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

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The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards