The training course provided an introduction to themes of ocean governance with special reference to the international legal framework of UNCLOS, and the policies, technologies, methodology and good practices of ocean governance for both coastal areas and marine areas beyond national jurisdiction.
11 participants from 7 countries (Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand), from a diversity of practical and academic backgrounds, participated in this training course. The programme was offered in-person for two weeks, focusing on intensive class training through presentations and discussions, and fieldwork. Training combined theory with practice providing participants with a platform for learning from each other.
During the opening ceremony Dr Shi Suixiang (IOI governing board member), in the presence of other high level representatives from the host institute, welcomed the participants on behalf of NMDIS, host centre of the IOI China Regional Centre, and extended his appreciation to the IOI for their support and contribution to the IOI China Regional training programme. He emphasised that the IOI China Regional Centre course on ocean governance has become an important platform of personnel training and exchange in the region.
Antonella Vassallo, Managing Director, IOI, attended the launch of the course in Tianjin, welcoming participants and introducing them to the IOI and its training programmes which aim to create knowledgeable future leaders in Ocean Governance. Ms Vassallo contributed lectures on Sustainable Ocean Development principles and introduced the class to the concepts of Governance of the Ocean in the Areas beyond National Jurisdiction.