(NEWS) WMU Hosts Sweden’s Maritime Forum World Maritime Day Event

October

2026

WMU Hosts Sweden’s Maritime Forum World Maritime Day Event

The World Maritime University (WMU) hosted the Swedish Maritime Forum’s (Maritimt Forum) World Maritime Day 2026 event in Malmö, on 24 September bringing together representatives from Sweden's industry, government, academia and maritime organizations to discuss how policy and regulation can be translated into practical action across the maritime sector.

Held under the 2026-2027 World Maritime Day theme From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence, the event explored key issues shaping the future of shipping, including maritime safety, decarbonization, technological development and the evolving skills required in the sector.

Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr, President of WMU, delivered the opening remarks and presented WMU's mission and impact. WMU was further represented by Professor Michael Manuel, Vice President (Provost ) who made a presentation on Global Partnershps for Successful IMO Implementation, and Professor Henning Jessen who joined a panel discussion on SOLAS and the IMO's work on safety and security issues, cyber risk management, navigation and GPS interference.

Discussions highlighted how international regulations can provide direction for innovation and investment, while also addressing the practical challenges of implementation. Maritime safety was a particular focus, with discussions on cybersecurity and disruptions to satellite-based navigation systems. The importance of resilient systems and maintaining traditional navigation skills alongside digital technologies was emphasized.

The transition towards lower-emission shipping was also central to the discussions, with energy efficiency, alternative fuels and infrastructure among the topics addressed. Speakers highlighted the need for stable regulatory frameworks and close cooperation between ports, shipowners, authorities and technology providers to support long-term investment and progress.

The event also considered how education and training must evolve alongside technological change. Digitalization, automation and new energy systems are creating new competency requirements, increasing the importance of combining practical experience with advanced simulator-based training.

The discussions throughout the day underscored the importance of collaboration across the maritime sector. Bringing together different areas of expertise and experience is essential to turning policy ambitions into practical solutions and supporting a safer, more sustainable and resilient maritime future.

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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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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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