The IMO International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI) has held its 33rd graduation ceremony, marking the success of 56 international law specialists from 37 countries who have completed various courses at the Institution. The ceremony, held on 1 July, was the first hybrid (in person and virtual) IMLI graduation. It included graduands from El Salvador and Guinea-Bissau participating in the Institute's programmes for the first time.
Addressing the graduating class at the ceremony in Malta, IMO Secretary General Kitack-Lim said, "Despite the turbulent times and the difficulties the pandemic has caused, you have achieved your goals. You, the Class of 2022, have been empowered, through knowledge and skills, to contribute effectively to the realization of IMO's goals for a better world."
Secretary-General Lim highlighted the importance of IMLI's longstanding policy of reserving 50 per cent of the seats in the programmes for deserving female candidates, contributing to better gender diversity and equality in the maritime sector.
The newly graduating class brings the total number of IMLI graduates to more than 1,000 students from 151 countries. The graduation ceremony was the last such occasion spearheaded by current IMLI Director Professor David Attard, who will be retiring after 30 years of service. He will be succeeded by Professor Norman A. Martinez Gutierrez at the start of August 2022.