(NEWS) Special Lecture on Revising the International Safety Management (ISM) Code

October

2025

Special Lecture on Revising the International Safety Management (ISM) Code

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On 10 October, the World Maritime University welcomed Dr. Michelle Grech, Manager of Vessel Operations at the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), for an engaging special lecture titled “Revising the International Management Code Review – Challenges and the Way Forward.”

Dr. Grech presented insights from a comprehensive international study assessing the effectiveness and implementation of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. The research—undertaken with co-authors Professor Margareta Lützhöft, Professor Birgit Pauksztat, and Captain Jörgen Zachau—analyzed data from flag states, classification societies, port state control regimes, shipping companies, and seafarers, covering over 80 percent of the global fleet.

Her presentation highlighted key findings related to paperwork overload, the practical application of safety management systems, the authority of ship masters, crewing challenges, and the role of designated persons ashore. The study also revealed that Safety Management System (SMS) shortcomings were contributing factors in over 80 percent of marine accidents reviewed.

Dr. Grech outlined several recommendations adopted by the International Maritime Organization's Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110) in June 2025, including a comprehensive review of ISM guidance for Administrations and Companies, updates to Port State Control guidelines, a holistic review of instruments dealing with resources and personal, and enhanced capacity development and non-technical skills training to strengthen safety culture across the maritime sector.

A chartered engineer with more than 25 years of maritime experience, Dr. Grech has worked as a shipyard commissioning engineer, port State control inspector, marine surveyor, and maritime human-factors researcher. At AMSA, she oversees safe vessel operations, including crewing determinations, safety management systems, seafarer welfare, and marine incident analysis. She holds a PhD in Human Factors from the University of Queensland, focusing on fatigue and workload at sea, and serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at the same university. Dr. Grech is widely recognized for her contributions to maritime safety research and human factors in shipping.

AMSA’s Ongoing Support to WMU
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The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is a strong partner of WMU through its ongoing support for maritime education and capacity development in the Indo-Pacific region. Since 2018, AMSA has provided funding to enable 25 students from 15 Indo-Pacific countries—including Bangladesh, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Maldives, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Tanzania, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vietnam—to undertake the 14-month Master of Science in Maritime Affairs programme at WMU.

Australia remains a strong advocate for the maritime interests of the Indo-Pacific region, and AMSA views this support as a valuable opportunity to strengthen the technical, professional, and leadership capabilities of maritime specialists across the region. Providing fellowships to WMU underscores Australia’s commitment to advancing maritime safety and sustainable ocean governance.

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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

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