A group of 13 students in the Maritime Education and Training (MET) specialization of the World Maritime University (WMU) participated in a field study to London in the first week of February.
Accompanied by WMU Assistant Professor, Momoko Kitada, the field study provided a unique opportunity to attend the second session of the Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 2) at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), as observers.
The agenda of the session included the validation of various IMO model courses as well as review of STCW passenger ship specific safety training.
During the training, one of the students noted, “I can now understand how difficult it is to harmonize ideas and procedures for the Member States. It was so interesting to see the complexity of the agenda which looks simple at a glance.”
During a courtesy call to the IMO Secretary-General, Koji Sekimizu, the students were encouraged to learn about the history of IMO.
Sekimizu emphasized the importance of “shared responsibilities” among the member states to ensure a sustainable maritime transport system.
The students were also invited to visit the IMO Maritime Knowledge Centre where Head, Ms. Sharon Lynn Grant, offered research support as well as information about internships.
The visit to IMO also proved to be an excellent networking opportunity for the students.
They not only met delegates from their own countries, but were inspired by meeting many WMU alumni who represent their countries at IMO.
While in London, the students also visited the Nautical Institute, which is the international representative body for maritime professionals.
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