(NEWS) WMU Regional Conference for the Americas Commences

October

2017

WMU Regional Conference for the Americas Commences

The WMU Regional Conference for the Americas opened on 23 October in Lima, Peru in partnership with the Dirección General de Capitanías y Guardacostas (DICAPI). The three-day event is bringing together over 200 participants from 22 countries across the Americas to address the topic of Maritime and Port Sectors in the Americas - Challenges and opportunities in light of the SDGs.

WMU President, Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, delivered the opening remarks. She noted that with the focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it was particularly fitting that the conference should take place at the same period as the United Nations Day that is celebrated annually on 24 October. She stated, “We all have an important role to play in advancing the UN 2030 Agenda, and today we have come together to focus on how we can work toward that goal within the maritime and port sectors of the Americas. Governments alone cannot implement the SDGs. Collaboration with the private sector, civil society, universities and educational institutions will be required to achieve the 17 ambitious goals.” She called on the region, which plays an important role in shipping and ports and which has one of the biggest ocean spaces, to take advantage of the 456 WMU alumni – a global cadre of trained experts from the region - to address the challenges, take advantage of the opportunities to support implementation of the UNSDGs in the maritime, ports sectors and with respect to the oceans.

Mr. Lawrence Barchue, a 1991 WMU graduate and Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Member State Audit and Implementation Support for the International Maritime Organization (IMO) delivered remarks on behalf of IMO. Vice Admiral Manuel Santiago Váscones Morey, General Director Captaincies and Coastguard National Maritime Authority (DICAPI) delivered welcoming remarks on behalf of DICAPI and noted the strong ties between WMU and Peru as well as Peru’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Agenda. Vice Admiral Vascones also noted the work done by the Peruvian Maritime Authority in order to achieve a high level of organization and availability of means to fulfill responsibilities of Perú as a flag State, port State and coastal State.

WMU Faculty members who are participating as speakers or moderators include Professor Larry Hildebrand, Professor Takeshi Nakazawa and Associate Professor María Carolina Romero Lares, who is the Chair of the conference Organizing Committee. In addition, several WMU alumni are speakers at the conference and WMU alumni from 18 different countries are in attendance.

The event is the first of its kind in the region and is focused on the development of initiatives, strategies and alliances for the advancement of the maritime and port sectors in the region, highlighting the importance of postgraduate maritime and oceans education, research and capacity building for the Americas. As a result of the conference, a WMU Regional Alumni Association for the Americas will be established. Recognizing the tremendous impact WMU Alumni are achieving as maritime leaders in terms of the UN 2030 Agenda, WMU is looking forward to the intensified regional collaboration and evolving partnerships as a result of the Conference.

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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

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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.

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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