(NEWS) WMU Contributes to OECS Sustainable Development Movement 2020 Summit

September

2020

WMU Contributes to OECS Sustainable Development Movement 2020 Summit

Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University (WMU), delivered a video message to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Sustainable Development Movement (SDM) 2020 Summit that took place 22 to 24 September. The Summit brought together Senior Government Officials, Industry and Private Sector Leaders, Global Entrepreneurs and Civil Society to exchange thoughts, best practices and strategies concerning sustainable growth and development within the Caribbean.

Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University (WMU), delivers a video message to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Sustainable Development Movement (SDM) 2020 Summit

In her remarks for the SDM Blue Economy Investors’ Roundtable, President Doumbia-Henry noted her personal connection to the Caribbean, growing up in Dominica. She spoke of the special connection Small Island Developing States (SIDS) have with the ocean, which provides both crucial services as well as enormous challenges.

Showcasing some of WMU’s work in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) region, she highlighted the new “Closing the Circle” programme focused on Marine Debris, Sargassum and Marine Spatial Planning in the Eastern Caribbean, which is underway at the WMU-Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute. The programme is funded by The Nippon Foundation and is aimed at human resource development in the Eastern Caribbean region through research, training and capacity-building. Through a competitive process, six PhD candidates have joined the 3-year programme, five from the CARICOM region and one from Sweden.

“Through research on technological innovations, blue growth and ocean literacy, the Closing the Circle project intends to analyse the possibilities for economic development and to enhance greater awareness about the ocean. Moreover, recent studies from the region have shown that properly implemented marine spatial planning can increase production value as well as generate new employment opportunities in the blue economy,” said President Doumbia-Henry.

The programme is developed in close collaboration with some of the key stakeholders in the region including the University of the West Indies Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (UWI CERMES), the OECS Commission, CARICOM, UNEP’s Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP), OECS member States, and representative organizations of civil society.

During the lively deliberations at the Investors’ Roundtable, the Director of the WMU-Global Ocean Institute, Professor Ronan Long, outlined the extensive consultations that inform the design and delivery of the programme. He also emphasized that education and research are two vital catalysts that will contribute to sustainable economic growth of the OECS region through this novel initiative. ‍

About OECS‍

The OECS is an International Inter-governmental Organization dedicated to regional integration in the Eastern Caribbean. It is a cooperation of Countries who signed the Treaty of Basseterre to work together for common interests including peace, stability and wealth. The OECS Commission has 5 Strategic Objectives on key aspects of Regional Integrations, Resilience, Social Equity, Foreign Policy, Improving and Strengthening the Commission in delivering its mandate.
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About WMU‍

Established within the framework of the International Maritime Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations, WMU’s mission is to be the world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and oceans education, professional training and research, while building global capacity and promoting sustainable development.

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To view President Doumbia-Henry's full video message, click here.

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Professor Ronan Long, Director of the WMU-Global Ocean Institute, outlined the extensive consultations that inform the design and delivery of the Closing the Circle programme.

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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.

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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.

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