WMU Contributes to 110th Anniversary of Dalian Maritime University
On the occasion of the 110th Anniversary of Dalian Maritime University (DMU), Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University (WMU) provided a video message contribution to the celebrations and Professor Shuo Ma, Vice President International of WMU, attended and delivered remarks.
For the past 14 years, WMU has partnered with DMU on the Master of Science programme in Maritime Safety and Environmental Management (MSEM). President Doumbia Henry stated, “Through the effective and long-standing cooperation with DMU, and especially with the continued support from the government of China, we have reached a landmark of 510 graduates for our Dalian Programme at the end of 2018. Almost all of our graduates have returned to their national and local administrations to make a greater and positive contribution to the development of China.”
In his remarks, Professor Ma emphasized the close cooperation between the two institutions since WMU was founded in 1983. The DMU Presidents have been members of the Board of Governors since WMU was founded and have traveled to WMU at least once annually to attend the Board of Governors meeting. President Si Yuchuo, President Wu Zhaolin, President Wang Zuwen and currently President Sun Yuqing have contributed their substantial experience as leaders in maritime education and research and made remarkable and highly valuable contributions to the development of WMU. A total of 38 DMU faculty members have studied at WMU’s Malmö-based MSc programme and the majority are now working in academic and administrative positions at DMU. In addition, a number of DMU faculty members join WMU’s English and Study Skills Programme annually.
The two MSc outreach programmes in China were established by WMU in 2005 to extend the University’s professional education to a new and thriving clientele from the region and beyond, and to meet the maritime industry’s demand for high-level specialized professionals in China’s maritime market. The MSc in Maritime Safety & Environmental Management (MSEM) is delivered in Dalian in cooperation with DMU, and the MSc in International Transport & Logistics (ITL) is delivered in Shanghai in cooperation with Shanghai Maritime University. The 15-month intensive programmes are taught entirely in English and the entry requirements, grading system and quality assurance process are those applied at WMU. Since the outreach programmes were established, more than 10 WMU Professors have visited DMU annually to teach in the MSEM programme as well as contribute to other academic activities.
Out of the 4,919 WMU graduates from 168 countries, Chinese students are the largest group marking a total number of 1,130.The WMU President visits DMU annually to attend the graduation ceremony of the MSEM and ITL programmes in China.

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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.
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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.
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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.
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