Class of 2024 primed to contribute to maritime and ocean issues

The latest graduating class from the World Maritime University (WMU) is primed to contribute to maritime and ocean issues, in their home countries and beyond, and help realise the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

In his first graduation address (2 November) as Chancellor of WMU, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez 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. In his advice to the graduates, he emphasized that they don't need to have all the answers. He encouraged them to rely on their WMU friendships and extended networks to navigate obstacles and transform challenges into opportunities. He highlighted that sharing their knowledge and experiences would be invaluable, enriching them both personally and professionally.

Welcome remarks were delivered by WMU President, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr. As a WMU graduate himself, President Mejia reflected on the power of the WMU experience in shaping the way WMU graduates think, work, plan and interact. He said, "I charge you today, to always cherish the great benefits you have gained from this incredible academic programme that not only offered you studies in maritime and oceans affairs, but also offered you the opportunity to work and live together as global citizens in the true United Nations spirit of peace, understanding, harmony, and a shared resolve to make our world a better place." He encouraged the graduates to, in time, do everything within their means to allow others the same unique opportunity to study at WMU.

The graduating class includes 260 graduates from over 70 countries, bringing the total number of WMU graduates to 6,340 from 170 countries and territories.

For further details, including a full list of awards presented at the ceremony; photos; and a video recording, visit the WMU website here.