(NEWS) IMO Secretary-General Visits WMU

January

2014

IMO Secretary-General Visits WMU

On 17 January, IMO Secretary-General and WMU Chancellor, Mr. Koji Sekimizu, visited WMU for a full itinerary of activities, accompanied by the Director of the Technical Co-operation Division, Mr. Nicolaos Charalambous (WMU alumnus M.Sc. 1986 (MSAE)), and the Senior Deputy Director, Ms. Pamela Tansey. The visit was hosted by WMU President Professor Björn Kjerfve, and Vice President Academic Professor Neil Bellefontaine.

The Secretary-General addressed the students including the 125 M.Sc. students in the class of 2014 as well as many of the full-time Ph.D. students. He emphasized the unique and important connection between IMO and WMU, and the expectation upon graduation that WMU alumni return to their home countries with a strong understanding of IMO and its international Conventions, noting that the first Convention, SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), will mark its 100thanniversary on Monday, 20 January. On a personal note, he spoke to the students about making the most of their time at WMU, and taking advantage of every moment. In relaying his own experience, he remarked on the importance of getting enough rest to allow your mind to process information, and the particular value he finds in the time of the early morning. Recognizing the average age of WMU students is around 35, he encouraged the students to think actively about their future careers 10, 20, and even 30 years from now and what the world will be like at that time. He noted that perhaps someone in the room might be a future Minister for their country, or IMO Secretary-General.

After an informal greeting session with the students, Mr. Sekimizu met with several members of the Swedish Transport Agency who were in Malmö for part two of a customized Executive Professional Development Course (EPDC). The focus for the week happened to be the SOLAS Convention. Mr. Sekimizu spoke to the group about the history of SOLAS, noting its upcoming anniversary, as well as the two-year anniversary of the Costa Concordia on 13 January which took place just two weeks into his tenure as Secretary-General.

Mr. Sekimizu also addressed the WMU faculty and staff, emphasizing his interest in increased collaboration and contact between IMO and WMU. He noted the value to both IMO and WMU in highlighting that unique relationship. Mr. Sekimizu spoke of the vision of WMU by its founding father, former IMO Secretary-General and WMU Chancellor Emeritus Dr. C.P. Srivastava, and emphasized that IMO can create Conventions, but cannot implement them. Therefore the creation of WMU was, and continues to be, paramount to educating maritime professionals in developing countries to effectively implement International Conventions and improve maritime capacity building.

After lunch at the Old City Hall, hosted by Malmö City Mayor and WMU Governor Kent Andersson, the afternoon focused on a site visit to the future home of WMU. In early 2015, WMU will move to Tornhuset, the centrally located, historic harbor master’s building that will be enhanced by a dramatic new addition designed by renowned architect Kim Utzon in collaboration with the Australian architecture firm of Terroir Architects. A presentation about the overall project ideas and progress was made by the Project Architect, Mr. Tyrone Cobcroft of Terroir, before a walk-through of the construction site. Work in the historic existing building is ongoing and work on the slab for the sixth floor cafeteria was underway. A late afternoon meeting with the WMU Management Committee rounded out the day.

Related Documents

No items found.

Dissertation title

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.

‍

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.

‍

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