The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of South Korea is poised to organize a specialized training event for students of the World Maritime University (WMU) from March 16th to March 23rd. This educational initiative is designed to acquaint future maritime leaders with the nation’s pioneering ocean mobility sector and its maritime policy framework.
Established under the aegis of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the WMU is renowned for its advanced maritime education, offering graduate programs in areas critical to maritime safety, environment, logistics, and policy. Catering primarily to government officials and employees from various public institutions across IMO’s 175 member countries, the university plays a pivotal role in shaping the competencies required for global maritime leadership.
Initiated in 2004, the invitation program for WMU students to South Korea has been a cornerstone in promoting international goodwill and sharing of maritime knowledge. Over the years, the initiative has facilitated visits for more than 410 students and faculty members, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and professional networking. This year’s program will see the participation of 18 individuals, including students and an instructor from 12 diverse nations such as South Korea, Ghana, Nigeria, Malaysia, and Japan, among others.
The agenda for the visiting scholars encompasses a series of immersive experiences, including tours of the HD Hyundai Global Research and Development (R&D) Center, autonomous ship performance testing at the Ship and Ocean Plant Research Institute, as well as visits to maritime training institutions like the Korea Maritime and Ocean University. The program also includes cultural experiences, aiming to deepen the participants’ understanding of South Korean heritage and societal values.
Minister Kang Do-hyung expressed optimism about the impact of the training program, stating, “This initiative offers WMU students a unique opportunity to gain insights into South Korea’s advancements in the maritime sector, particularly in areas of decarbonization and digitalization. We anticipate that this experience will foster stronger ties between the World Maritime University and South Korea, encouraging collaboration on future maritime innovations and policy development.”
