(NEWS) Sasakawa Fellows Reception 2014

November

2014

Sasakawa Fellows Reception 2014

At the annual Sasakawa Fellows Reception, hosted by the Ocean Policy Research Foundation (OPRF) on 1 November, the 22 students sponsored in the Class of 2014 were honored as WMU Sasakawa Fellows. The new Fellows come from 16 different countries: Algeria, Bangladesh, Colombia, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Liberia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Viet Nam. The total number of WMU Sasakawa Fellows is now 543.

Mr Eisuke Kudo, Special Advisor of the OPRF, welcomed the guests including Mr. Koji Sekimizu, WMU Chancellor and Secretary-General of the IMO, Professor Neil Bellefontaine, Acting WMU President, Mr. Mitsuyuki Unno, Executive Director of the Nippon Foundation, and Mr Leif Almö, Honorary Consul of Japan. The gathering also included dignitaries from IMO, University Governors, WMU faculty and staff, family members of the Fellows, Sasakawa Fellowship Students in the Class of 2015, and guests who would receive honorary awards at the graduation ceremony on 2 November.

Mr. Unno addressed the graduating students, congratulating them on the completion of their studies and welcoming them to the “family” of Sasakawa Fellows. He delighted the company by saying “Congratulations” in all 16 languages spoken in the students’ home countries. The certificates were then presented individually to each graduating student. Upon receiving the honor of Fellow, each recipient also became a member of the Friends of WMU, Japan.

The Class of 2014 Fellows have now officially joined the global network of individuals whose lives have been changed by accepting their roles as Sasakawa Fellows. “Share the Pain. Share the Hope. Share the Future,” can be found on the Foundation’s website, reflecting their mission of social innovation to achieve a society where people support one another. Their mission for social innovation maintains that, “Everyone has a role to play: citizens, corporations, nonprofit organizations, government, and international bodies. By forging networks among these actors, The Nippon Foundation serves as a hub for the world’s wisdom, experience, and human resources, giving individuals the capacity to change society - the hope that they can make a difference.”

Second only to WMU’s host country of Sweden, The Nippon Foundation, through OPRF, is the largest donor to the University, providing 22-25 new awards on an annual basis. In addition to the Fellowships that cover all tuition and living expenses, since 1993 The Nippon Foundation has hosted a week-long field study to Japan for Sasakawa Fellowship Students and since 2001 has regularly hosted Sasakawa Fellow gatherings.

Aside from the extraordinary support for students, The Nippon Foundation further supports the capacity building mission of WMU by sponsoring three Professorial Chairs and a Lecturer. In addition, the Foundation provides support for numerous conferences and events connected with WMU.

At the graduation ceremony on 2 November, two Sasakawa Fellows received student awards: Aleik Nurwahyudy from Indonesia received the Lloyd´s Maritime Academy Dissertation Prize, and the C. P. Srivastava Award for International Fellowship, was awarded to Yusuke Mori from Japan.

Click here for more information about The Nippon Foundation
Click here for information about the Sasakawa Fellowship Program and Friends of WMU, Japan

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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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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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