Inauguration - Class of 2027 MSc Specializations in China
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In May, the World Maritime University (WMU) celebrated the inauguration ceremonies for the incoming Class of 2027 for the Master of Science (MSc) in Maritime Affairs specializations offered in Dalian and Shanghai, 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).
In total, 89 students were welcomed to the Class of 2027 for the two specializations. WMU was represented at both inaugurations by Professor Michael Ekow Manuel, Vice President (Provost), and Associate Professor Gang Chen, Head of the ITL and MSEM specializations. In welcome remarks at the events, Professor Manuel highlighted the strategic cooperations between WMU, DMU and SMU, and encouraged students and staff to continue upholding the high academic standard and tradition of excellence for the programmes.
MSEM Class of 2027 Inauguration, Dalian
Inauguration of the Class of 2027 for the MSc in Maritime Affairs with a specialization in Maritime Safety and Environmental Management (MSEM) was held on 22 May in Dalian. A total of 57 students are enrolled in the Class of 2027, making it the largest MSEM cohort to date. Out of the class, 30 students are sponsored by the China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA), demonstrating MSA’s continued and unwavering support to national capacity development as well as dedication to the value of the MSEM academic programme.
In addition to the WMU delegation, the ceremony was attended by Professor Yu-Long JI, Vice President of DMU, who welcomed the students and congratulated them on joining the programme. WMU Professor Emeritus P. K. Mukherjee delivered a welcome speech on behalf of the faculty. The inauguration ceremony was moderated by DMU Dean, Shao-Man LIU, and the DMU management team were also in attendance.
For more information about the MSEM specialization offered in Dalian, click here.
ITL Class of 2027 Inauguration, Shanghai
Inauguration of the Class of 2027 for the MSc in Maritime Affairs with a specialization in International Transport and Logistics (ITL) took place on 25 May in Shanghai. A total of 32 students are admitted to the Class of 2027, including 26 students from mainland China, and one student each from Hong Kong (China), Viet Nam, Thailand, Morocco, Maldives and France.
In addition to the WMU delegation, the ceremony was attended by Professor Ming YIN, Vice President of SMU, Professor Wei RUAN, Dean of SMU’s Institute of International Education College, Professor Shun CHEN, Deputy Dean of SMU’s Institute of International Education College, and Ms. Anne Pazaver, Lecturer, as a WMU faculty representative.
For more information about the ITL specialization offered in Shanghai, click here.
About the MSc Specializations in China
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 date, there are 1,407 graduates since the inception of the programmes in 2005.

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.

I was primarily attracted to WMU for its prestigious standing as a globalleader in maritime education and research. The institution's emphasis onsustainability and its diverse international student body were particularlyappealing. My research, which focuses on the transition of ports toward low andnear-zero carbon emissions, perfectly aligns with WMU's dedication tosustainable maritime practices. This common vision made WMU the ideal choicefor advancing my academic and professional aspirations in the maritimeindustry.
A significant highlight of my timeat WMU has been the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with a diverse groupof experts and peers from various corners of the globe. This internationalenvironment has broadened my perspective on maritime issues and fostered a richexchange of ideas. It has been a rewarding experience to engage in discussions,share insights, and work collectively toward innovative solutions to complexmaritime challenges.
Post-graduation, I am committed toapplying the knowledge and research expertise I've acquired at WMU to make ameaningful impact in the maritime sector. My plans involve activelycontributing to the sustainable transformation of the industry by focusing onthe implementation of greener and more efficient port operations. I aim to playa part in fostering a cleaner and more sustainable future for ports andshipping on a global scale.

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.
