(NEWS) World Maritime Day 2026 – From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence

September

2026

World Maritime Day 2026 – From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence

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The World Maritime University (WMU) joins the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the global maritime community in celebrating World Maritime Day on 24 September 2026.

The 2026-2027 theme, “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence,” recognizes that international rules and standards can only make a difference when they are effectively put into practice. This requires not only sound policies, but also the people, expertise and resources to implement them.

As an institution established within the framework of IMO, this theme has particular relevance to WMU and our mission to educate future maritime and oceans leaders.

For World Maritime Day, WMU President, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., shares the following recorded message:

“The 2026–2027 World Maritime Day theme, ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence,’ recognizes the importance of international maritime regulations and standards in providing the foundation for a safe, secure and sustainable maritime sector. Effective implementation ultimately depends on people with the knowledge and expertise to put policies into practice, as well as the systems and institutions to support their implementation.

Founded within the framework of the International Maritime Organization, WMU educates maritime and oceans leaders from around the world. WMU graduates are working globally to facilitate the implementation of international standards, strengthen maritime institutions, and address the multifaceted challenges facing the sector.

As the maritime sector continues to evolve, effective implementation of policy continues to be an urgent need, requiring international cooperation, sharing of knowledge and, above all, people with the skills to turn policies and standards into practice and meaningful impact.

On this World Maritime Day, WMU reaffirms its commitment to supporting the people and institutions that make maritime excellence possible.”

Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr.
President, World Maritime University

To view the recorded message, click here.

About World Maritime Day

World Maritime Day is celebrated annually during the final week of September and provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of shipping and the work of IMO in promoting safe, secure, environmentally sound and sustainable shipping.

The theme for 2026 and 2027 is “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.” It focuses on the importance of implementing international maritime regulations effectively and the role of technical assistance, training, capacity development and knowledge sharing in supporting IMO Member States.

Marking World Maritime Day

WMU will host a World Maritime Day Forum on 24 September in collaboration with Maritimt Forum, a Swedish organization that brings together the shipping and wider maritime sectors and provides a platform for collaboration on issues of common interest. The forum will bring together representatives from across the maritime sector to explore this year’s World Maritime Day theme, with discussions addressing the implementation of international maritime regulations, safety and security, environmental performance, seafarer training and international cooperation. The event will provide an opportunity for dialogue, exchange of knowledge and discussion of how the maritime sector can translate international policies and standards into practice.

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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

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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A Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards