(NEWS) WMU President Addresses IMO Assembly

December

2023

WMU President Addresses IMO Assembly

IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim and WMU President Maximo Q. Mejia with some of the WMU graduates in attendance at the 33rd IMO Assembly. It is of note that both Mr. Lim and Professor Mejia are WMU graduates.

Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., President of the World Maritime University (WMU), addressed the 33rd session of the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which took place from 27 November - 6 December.

President Mejia provided an update on activities of the University in 2022 and 2023, and expressed appreciation for the continued support from the IMO Member States, Secretariat, and other partners in both the public and private sectors. Appreciation was also extended to the Secretary-General for his trust and leadership, the Board of Governors and the Executive Board for their guidance, and the IMO community for its steadfast support.

Highlights included the 40th anniversary of WMU in 2023 and the recent graduation on 28 October of 283 individuals from 71 countries that included a record of 35 per cent women in the Master’s programme, and 10 candidates were awarded the Doctor of Philosophy in Maritime Affairs, out of whom 7 were women. The overall total of WMU alumni now stands at 6,087 from 170 countries and territories.

Thanks were extended to major donors who supported the University in 2021-22, including: Sweden, The Nippon Foundation of Japan, Republic of Korea, Canada, and the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF). Major fellowship contributors include: The Nippon Foundation (Sasakawa Peace Foundation), the IMO Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme Global Capacity-building and Training Programme, ITF Seafarers' Trust, Ministry of Transport Germany, TK Foundation, Orients Fond, Stena Rederi, Grimaldi Foundation, Gard A/S, Wallenius, International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) Academy of Singapore, Norwegian Seafarers’ Union, and the Governments of Australia, China, Germany, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and United Kingdom. Special thanks were also extended to the US Coast Guard for their ongoing, in-kind contribution of a full-time Lecturer as part of the WMU faculty.

President Mejia expressed gratitude to IMO for engaging with WMU on a number of key initiatives including the Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme and e-learning course development. He highlighted that WMU’s achievements are the result of a dedicated partnership with the IMO, the Governing Boards, Member States, UN partners, civil society, academia, the private sector and other stakeholders.

“As we march into the next WMU Strategic Plan 2024 – 2027, my vision for the University is to ensure that WMU remains fit-for-purpose, adaptable, and continuously modernizing its programmes, particularly focusing on the implementation of IMO international maritime instruments while building global capacity and promoting sustainable development. I thank the Assembly once again for your invaluable guidance, insights, and support,” said President Mejia.

ABOUT IMO ASSEMBLY

The Assembly is open to all 175 IMO Member States and three Associate Members. It is also attended by observers from intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.

The Assembly is the highest Governing Body of the International Maritime Organization and meets once every two years in regular sessions, but may also meet in an extraordinary session, if necessary. The Assembly is responsible for approving the work programme, the budget and determining the financial arrangements of the Organization. The Assembly also elects the Members of the Council. In addition, the Assembly adopts certain resolutions emanating from the five IMO Committees and endorses actions of the Council with respect to the admission of new intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations as observers. The Assembly also adopts amendments to certain treaties, if so provided therein.

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Dissertation title

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