(NEWS) WMU Graduation Ceremony 2025

November

2025

WMU Graduation Ceremony 2025

‍

On 1 November, the latest cohort of the maritime and oceans leaders of tomorrow graduated from the World Maritime University (WMU). The Class of 2025 has received the education required to contribute to maritime and oceans issues in their home countries and more broadly to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The overall number of WMU graduates now exceeds 6,600 from 171 countries.

Welcome remarks were delivered by WMU President, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., who expressed collective gratitude to all donors who support the University. President Mejia reflected on his own experience as a WMU student and on the University’s lasting impact in shaping the way graduates think, work, plan, and interact. He also spoke about the strength of the WMU network—from faculty and staff to visiting lecturers and experts—a network that graduates will continue to rely on for decades to come. He highlighted the generations of WMU alumni who have joined this unique University and emerged as better, stronger, and wiser individuals.

Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Chancellor of WMU and Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), thanked the City of Malmö and the Government of Sweden for their continued generosity and support in hosting the University, as well as the many donors for their ongoing commitment to WMU. He praised the strong sense of community that WMU fosters, and encouraged the graduates to embrace that global network as they face the challenges of today’s world, and turn them into opportunities. He encouraged them to apply what they have learned to their advantage, being proactive in their work, and sharing with colleagues. “The more you support each other and work together, the more successful you will be,” he said.

On behalf of the City of Malmö, Ms. Carina Nilsson, Mayor and Chairperson of the Malmö City Council, addressed the gathering and expressed the City’s pride in hosting the University. She congratulated the graduates, noting that one of the greatest strengths of WMU is its diversity, with graduates from 171 countries—a quality Malmö shares, with residents representing 186 nations—making it a fitting home for WMU. She emphasized that diversity creates opportunities to build relationships, share experiences, and learn from one another, fostering greater understanding and serving as a foundation for peace in the world. She added that the work the graduates will undertake will be instrumental in creating a safer, more eco-friendly, and sustainable maritime world.

Ms Sofiana Kontouri, President of the Student Council for the Class of 2025, delivered remarks on behalf of the graduating Class. She reflected on their transformative journey at WMU, celebrating the unity of 127 graduates representing 53 nations. “We arrived in Malmö as individuals, but we stand here today as one,” she said, highlighting how shared challenges fostered lifelong friendships and a global family bound by resilience and collaboration. “In the midst of that pressure, we found our greatest strength: each other. We turned to the person next to us, a person from a different continent, with a different story and we found a friend. We built a network that isn't just professional; it's personal. We studied together, we struggled together, and today, we triumph together.” Expressing gratitude to WMU’s leadership, faculty, and staff, she emphasized their vital role in guiding and inspiring the students. She concluded with a call to action—urging her fellow graduates to lead with purpose and work toward a sustainable, inclusive, and harmonious future.

In addition to the annual performance by the WMU Choir, the audience had the pleasure of hearing a solo rendition of “Time to say goodbye” by Mr Alexander Melifonwu of Nigeria, which received a standing ovation.

The 2025 graduation ceremony brings the total number of WMU graduates to over 6,600 from 171 countries and territories.

To access the recorded ceremony, click here.

‍

AWARDS PRESENTED AT THE CEREMONY

Doctor of Science honoris causa

Mr Mitsuyuki Unno, Executive Director of The Nippon Foundation, and member of WMU’s Executive Board from 2016 until 2024. Mr Unno has been closely associated with the University for many years. He has promoted WMU in the widest possible arena, and has led the support for the University’s involvement in oceans affairs. He has a keen interest in developing both human capacity and new technologies in the maritime and oceans field, demonstrated by the funding by The Nippon Foundation of the studies of 842 maritime and oceans professionals from more than 85 countries at WMU. Mr Unno has supported the University and its students personally, believing in the importance of interpersonal bonds and dialogue. He and The Nippon Foundation have been of immense assistance in many innovations at WMU, from the new WMU building and its auditorium, to the foundation and funding of the WMU-Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute (GOI). The Nippon Foundation has also funded professorial Chairs at WMU over many years. The number increased to seven Chairs earlier this year, in addition to the faculty employed at the GOI.

Her Excellency Ambassador Marie Jacobsson, was the Principal Legal Adviser on International Law and Ambassador at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Stockholm until her retirement on 1 June 2023. Dr Jacobsson’s work focuses on international peace and security matters, and she has extensive experience of high-level multilateral and bilateral negotiations on the law of the sea, polar law, international environmental law, boundary delimitation, regional security affairs, international humanitarian law and arms control. She is Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration and designated arbitrator under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty and Conciliator, Court of Conciliation and Arbitration within the OSCE.

‍

Professor Emeritus

Professor Takeshi Nakazawa first joined WMU as an Associate Professor in 1997, when he was released by Kobe University for a two-year period. He returned to Kobe in due course, but then re-joined WMU in 2003 as a full professor and Head of the MET Specialization. He had significant input into WMU’s work across all areas of activity. From 2012, he transitioned into a new role as part-time Professor, and continued to contribute significantly to teaching and student supervision.

‍
Outstanding Alumnus

Vice-Admiral (rtd) Awwad Eid Al-Aradi Al-Balawi, formerly Director General of the Saudi Arabian Border Guards and a member of the Consultative Assembly of Saudi Arabia (the Shura Council) since 2024. Vice-Admiral Al-Aradi has had a long and distinguished career in the service of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He spent almost five decades as an officer of the Saudi Border Guard, concluding with spending six years as its Director-General, until his retirement in 2020. He graduated from WMU with a Master of Science in General Maritime Administration in 1988.

Annual Student Awards

Two students had identical grades at the top of their class. Chancellor’s Medals in the MSc in Maritime Affairs were awarded to Mr Lucas Fernando Vaquero Roviriego (Brazil) and Mr Zhang Yang (China). The C P Srivastava Award for International Fellowship, was awarded to Mr Bismark Acheampong (Ghana). The Lloyd’s Maritime Academy Distance Learning Prize was awarded to Mr Antonio Borraccino (Italy). The Lloyd’s Maritime Academy Dissertation Prize was awarded to Mr Emmanuel Agbeko (Ghana). The Schlüter Foundation Dissertation Prize for an outstanding dissertation in the field of Shipping and Marine Environmental Protection was awarded to Ms Masego Mosupye (South Africa), and the Secretary-General’s Prize for best dissertation was awarded to Mr Mamadou Bajo (Gambia). The DNV Maritime Safety and Sustainability Prizes were awarded to Ms Akanksha Batura (Singapore) and Mr Marcin Jurkun (Poland).

For 2025, the Specialization Prizes for the MSc in Maritime Affairs were endowed by the Asia House Denmark and included: for Maritime Education & Training, Mr Juan Alberto Sanchez Castañeda (Peru); for Maritime Energy Management, Mr John Peter Kabonge (Uganda); for Maritime Law & Policy, Ms Yang Zhang (China); for Maritime Safety & Environmental Administration, Mr Ridho Budiman (Indonesia); for Ocean Sustainability, Governance and Management, Mr Emmanuel Agbeko (Ghana); for Port Management, Mr Lucas Fernando Vaquero Roviriego (Brazil); for Shipping Management & Logistics, Mr Joshua Obayan (Nigeria) ; for International Transport and Logistics, taught in Shanghai, Mr Zhang Lei (China); and for Maritime Safety and Environmental Management, taught in Dalian, Mr Fang Xinliang (China).

Recipients of the Kalmar Prizes, awarded by Kalmar Global to students who are recognized as leaders among their peers, included: Ms Lydia Salla Kadiri (Nigeria), Mr Lucas Fernando Vaquero Roviriego (Brazil), Mr Joshua Obayan (Nigeria), Ms Idil Mohamed (Somalia), Mr Damian Tiscornia (Argentina), Mr Zhanfeng Lang (China), Ms Tosca Pinas (Suriname), Ms Ms Masego Mosupye (South Africa), Mr Emmanuel Agbeko (Ghana), and Mr Bismark Acheampong (Ghana).

Additional WMU Graduation Ceremonies in 2025

From 23 -25 July, the World Maritime University (WMU) celebrated the graduation ceremonies, and 20 year milestone anniversary, of the two Master of Science (MSc) in Maritime Affairs specializations offered in 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). To date, there are 1,407 graduates since the inception of the programmes.

The first WMU graduation ceremony of 2025 took place on 23 July for 33 students in the MSc in Maritime Affairs with a specialization in International Transport and Logistics (Shipping & Finance) (ITL) offered in cooperation with Shanghai Maritime University took place in Shanghai. On 25 July, the graduation ceremony took place for 54 students in WMU’s MSc in Maritime Affairs with a specialization in Maritime Safety and Environmental Management (MSEM) offered in cooperation with Dalian Maritime University in Dalian, China.

Related Documents

No items found.

Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influenced by my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initially introduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education, WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional quality of education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became a compelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student. Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutional offerings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at this esteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals.

My research explored the theoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis on maritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the study conducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritime governance—specifically, the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affect the implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, the research aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmly anchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling the intricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMO instruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivated by a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies in maritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of a scarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in the existing body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration, underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area of maritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarly research.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of my educational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections with influential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of the globe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an international scale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also served as a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding of different perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantly to my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networking and has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within the Caribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path, my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritime governance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the global maritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by a passionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritime domain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly to positive transformations in the global maritime sector.

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

Spatiotemporal Analyses of Pelagic Sargassum: Biodiversity, Morphotypes and Arsenic Content

Contextual Barriers Facing Caribbean SIDS in the Global Governance of Plastic Pollution. Assessing the need for harmonized marine debris monitoring and contextual equity to support participation in the global plastics treaty negotiations by Caribbean SIDS

Hinterland Connectivity and Market Share. A case of Indian Container Ports

Combatting the Marine Litter Crisis in the Windward Islands: Examining Source-to-Sea Pathways and Fostering Multi-Scale Solutions

I was attracted to the World Maritime University (WMU) in Sweden simply due to the opportunity to research the transboundary challenges of marine litter in the Eastern Caribbean. My specific research focus on the Windward Islands allowed me to contribute solutions to a region I am deeply connected to.

Marine litter poses significant threats to Caribbean Small Island Developing States, affecting marine ecosystems, tourism, fisheries and other local economies, and the health of the communities. My choice to focus on this crisis was driven by the urgency to shed light on its magnitude, propose sustainable solutions, and advocate for more global efforts in addressing this pressing environmental issue.

Studying at WMU provided a multifaceted experience that extended beyond just academics, and there are two highlights worth mentioning to represent this. One, the amazing opportunity for intercultural exchange. I had the privilege of collaborating with researchers and experts from around the globe. This diverse gathering not only facilitated a unique learning environment but also opened doors to share varied perspectives. This exchange was instrumental to my research and learning process and enriched my career path. I found myself collaborating with and even speaking alongside some of the most respected experts in the field on renowned panels. Two, is a particularly exhilarating experience which was representing the university in the UN interagency games in 2022. I was honored to be a part of the first women's team from WMU. Against expectations, I managed to place third in my backstroke category, even though it was my first time participating in competitive swimming. Our team's dedication and hard work culminated in a podium finish, as we secured third place overall.

Post-graduation, my professional trajectory, initially aimed singularly at university teaching in Grenada, has evolved to include curricula development on marine conservation topics at various educational levels, aspiring to inspire the next generation. While my zeal for academia remains steadfast, my aspirations have broadened to encompass policy advocacy. My research, highlighting the striking linkages between marine litter and the overarching climate crisis, has fortified my resolve to employ these insights toward tangible change. Now, as I pivot towards a more policy-oriented role, I aim to work collaboratively with policymakers. My focus will be on underlining the Caribbean's unique environmental challenges, advocating for climate compensation, and concurrently influencing educational approaches on marine issues.

Combatting the Marine Litter Crisis in the Windward Islands: Examining Source-to-Sea Pathways and Fostering Multi-Scale Solutions

The Problem of Abandoned, Lost and otherwise Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) in Eastern Caribbean Small-Scale Fisheries. Understanding the Challenges, Defining Solutions

Gender equality in ocean science for sustainable development

I chose the World Maritime University for my PhD studies in Maritime Affairs because of several reasons, including its academic reputation and strong postgraduate degrees in maritime and ocean science-related programmes, a range of international modules, and the diverse group of students and faculty members. WMU is in Sweden, one of the EU countries with the best gender equality ranking worldwide. As a woman in marine science who faced several challenges in the industry, I was mainly attracted to the Empowering Women for the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development programme offered at the university. This unique programme aims to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in ocean science to increase women’s participation in ocean science and advance the sustainable management and governance of ocean spaces and maritime activities at all levels through capacity building.

My research topic focused on evaluating gender equality in ocean science for Sustainable development in Kenya. The primary aim of this study was to examine gender equality in ocean science institutions in Kenya, using the existing institutional gender policies, gender-disaggregated data of students and staff, the experiences and barriers faced by students and staff in this field as well as the good practices that the institutions already have to promote gender equality. The issue of gender equality and women’s empowerment are generally relevant for ocean governance because they bring diverse perspectives, skills and solutions to management and sustainability. I chose this research topic to understand the root causes of gender inequalities and persistent biases in the ocean science sector to make invisible voices and contributions of women in ocean science visible and to ensure women or marginalized groups are included in decision-making and policy-making processes as the primary users of marine resources.

I have had a fantastic journey and an incredible and rewarding experience at WMU. Studying here came with many blessings and was one of the best decisions I have ever made. First, my supervisors were resourceful, outstanding and very supportive, who dedicated their time to mentor and guide my research work. Their guidance, advice, motivation, kindness, understanding and support were instrumental and helped me achieve my academic goals to reach where I am today. Second, the university has a strong family bond, is well-organized, and embraces teamwork, and I received immense support from the GOI and WMU secretariat. Also, I managed to interact with many students from different nationalities, exchanged ideas and discovered/learned a lot of things from the various cultures, especially during the annual celebration of the WMU International Day, made new friends from around the world, expanded my network and immensely improved my global view.

After graduation, I plan to expand my network and find a job that includes both academic and practice-oriented research to continue advocating for gender equality in ocean science. Also, I plan to develop a policy brief for the ocean science institutions in Kenya as a guide for promoting gender equality in ocean science both in higher education and employing agencies. My natural science background will also open doors to explore and work in freshwater and marine environments.

Gender equality in ocean science for sustainable development

Harmonisation in the Rules Governing the Recognition of Foreign Judicial Ship Sales

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 MSc and PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for several compelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as a world-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wielded significant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a senior professional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of a captain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexus for both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the dissemination of my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment to maritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realms of academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMU was the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched in maritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University's storied tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within the maritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for my educational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

My research focus during my tenure at WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions in the maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures, including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held great appeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practical experience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorous academic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherently dynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeply convinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute to enhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencing positive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends in the 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 aspects of my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant and inclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members and fellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been an incredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmosphere has offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectives that would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focused setting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritime disciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching my educational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtful discussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritime topics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time at WMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network of maritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections with professionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have not only broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension to my educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded a prestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit of net-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University of Southampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the next phase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed to continuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building upon the invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. My primary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of the zero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within our global community.

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