Two maritime professionals from Gambia and Grenada have begun their Master's courses at the World Maritime University (WMU), with full scholarships from the IMO - Republic of Korea GHG-SMART project.
They are the second cohort of scholars under the GHG-SMART Recognition Scheme, selected based on a rigorous annual performance assessment scheme.
Ms. Ancha Gaye, Planning Manager, The Gambia Maritime Administration and Mr. Ian Noel, Marine Pilot and Senior Ship Inspector, Grenada Ports Authority & Maritime Administration, have begun their 2025-2026 programme for an MSc in Maritime Affairs - Maritime Energy Management at the WMU in Malmö, Sweden.
They completed the GHG-SMART training in 2024, following which they were selected for the Recognition Scheme. They follow in the footsteps of Ms Dorica Nayame from Zambia and Mr. Abel Bwikizo Bakahuuna from Uganda who were the first awardees under the GHG-SMART programme.
Meet the students
Ms. Ancha Gaye: "Maritime training is of strategic importance to The Gambia as a coastal LDC seeking to build national capacity in the governance and sustainable use of ocean resources. Developing a skilled maritime workforce will enhance the country's ability to comply with international conventions, strengthen port and shipping operations, and contribute effectively to global maritime governance.
The GHG-SMART programme has been a real turning point. Now, through my studies at the World Maritime University, I expect to acquire advanced knowledge of maritime governance, energy management, and environmental policy, with a particular focus on decarbonization and sustainable shipping. The multidisciplinary approach at WMU will enable me to apply international standards and best practices to national maritime planning and policy formulation. I also aim to strengthen my leadership, research, and analytical skills to contribute to institutional capacity-building within The Gambia Maritime Administration. Ultimately, this education will empower me to support The Gambia's active participation in global maritime initiatives and its progress toward the UN SDGs."
Mr. Ian Noel: "Maritime training is essential for Grenada's sustainable development and blue-economy aspirations. It builds technical expertise, strengthens institutional capacity, and ensures compliance with international standards. Training also empowers local professionals to lead the transition toward energy-efficient and environmentally responsible maritime practices-crucial for small island developing states adapting to global decarbonization goals.
The GHG-SMART programme has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of maritime decarbonization and the global regulatory framework under MARPOL Annex VI. It strengthened my ability to assess port readiness, design national action plans for GHG reduction, and evaluate Grenada's climate policies against the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy. Through the MSc in Maritime Energy Management at WMU, I aim to deepen my knowledge in energy efficiency, sustainable fuels, and environmental governance. This education will equip me to contribute to shaping and strengthening Grenada's climate and maritime policies by integrating maritime decarbonization actions, enhancing port resilience initiatives, and aligning national efforts with regional and international frameworks under the IMO's revised GHG Strategy."
