Mr. Rene Alberto Ruescas Mejia (Bolivia), Ms. Jacqueline Agyemang-Gyau (Ghana), Ms. Aina Charity Shalonga Keshongo (Namibia) and Mr. Adriano Tchuda (Guinea-Bissau) join the International Maritime Legal Institute (IMLI) this academic year.
We are supporting a global network of maritime law experts
Since our strategic partnership started over 20 years ago, more than 50 Foundation-funded maritime law experts have successfully graduated from IMLI, including 33 women and 17 from the African continent specifically.
The Foundation’s funding has helped ensure maritime professionals around the world have the skills required to prescribe IMO conventions into national law and uphold them effectively, improving safety at sea and building local legal expertise in emerging maritime economies.
Mr. Rene Alberto Ruescas Mejia (Bolivia), Ms. Jacqueline Agyemang-Gyau (Ghana), Ma. Aina Charity Shalonga Keshongo (Namibia) and Mr. Adriano Tchuda (Guinea-Bissau) join IMLI this academic year. We spoke to them about their goals and aspirations ahead of a career changing opportunity to further their education in maritime law.
Education in maritime law
Mr. Rene Alberto Ruescas Mejia, Bolivia
Technical Officer, Bolivia International Ship Registry
I am an officer of the Bolivian Navy, and my application to IMLI was motivated by the desire of acquiring a deeper knowledge about the international regulations governing the oceans.
"I believe that the implementation of international conventions is very important for each country and after I'll complete the programme, I will tirelessly work in contributing to the affairs of maritime administration of my country. With the newly acquired knowledge, I will assist in updating the current regulations which will promote the maritime interests of Bolivia which are a priority for the country as established in the political constitution of the State.”
I was inspired to join the Institute because of its prestigious reputation and well-resourced ability to impart critical knowledge and skills in maritime law.
"IMLI’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly its openness to equip women with the required training to successfully compete in a male-dominated industry, is impressive. My aspirations for the future are to gain expertise that will enable me to address pressing issues facing the maritime industry, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea region, with a focus on Ghana. I am committed to ensuring that the marine environment remains free from pollution and secured from threats such as oil theft, piracy, IUU fishing, and drug trafficking. Through my IMLI training, I aim to contribute to sustainable development in the maritime sector by promoting maritime safety and security and marine environmental protection.”
Ms. Aina Charity Shalonga Keshongo, Namibia
Legal Officer, Namibia Ministry of Justice
Living in a coastal town of Walvisbay, Namibia, I have always had a deep connection with the ocean and a sense of responsibility to protect it.
"This connection and admiration for the ocean and its marine life, combined with my career aspirations, fuelled my desire to advocate for stronger legal measures to ensure the protection of marine life. IMLI stands out as the perfect institution to equip me with the knowledge and tools to protect the ocean I cherish. Its comprehensive programme in maritime law aligns perfectly with my personal and professional goals. My vision for the future is to contribute positively to the field of International Maritime Law and to work on initiatives that advocate for stronger marine life and environmental protections. I aim to ensure that the ocean and the environment I love are preserved for future generations.”
Mr Adriano Tchuda, Guinea-Bissau
Head of Department of Captaincy and the Ports, Guinea-Bissau Maritime Administration
What inspired me to apply and join IMLI for this particular programme is because, after receiving the information from the Institute, I realized that my participation in the programme will equip me with the best tools in fully understanding international instruments and effectively domesticate these instruments into our national legislation.
"I strongly believe that this fellowship programme will enhance my knowledge in maritime law. Attending the programme will expand my horizons and provide me with ample opportunities to assist my administration, and the region. My aspiration for the future is to obtain the required qualification in maritime law and become a specialist in that sector. I commit to stand against practices that do not comply with the standards of international law of the sea.”
Stay up to date
We will be keeping in touch with Rene Alberto, Jacqueline, Aina and Adriano as their studies progress.
Support IMLI and their mission to improve the adoption and implementation of maritime law by visiting their website. For more information and to explore potential collaborations, contact our programme manager using the contact details below.
Emily Cameron, Programme Manager at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, leads projects with a focus on heritage grants and managing key partnerships. With a background in cultural heritage and science, she has held roles in national museums and consultancies.
Lloyd’s Register Foundation has awarded £1,000,000 in grant funding to the IMLI to support its work in the adoption and effective implementation of maritime legislation.
By supporting the International Maritime Legal Institute (IMLI), we’re helping to develop a formidable network of maritime legal specialists across the world, sharing the same principles and working towards the same goals.
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