The international feature of maritime law makes a place such as IMLI essential. When I was offered the possibility of studying in Malta at IMLI, I knew it would be a great opportunity but everything happened to be better than expected: the knowledge acquired lecturers, staff, and classmates. The interactive and practical element of the lecturers have been stimulating and inspiring, and helped me to further broaden my understanding the different areas of international maritime law. The support from IMLI staff has really enhanced my experience so far, and it has been fantastic getting to know the other students on my course, both working together during class group discussions and socialising outside of lectures. Being the first Turkmen student to attend the course and represent my beloved country was a great honour for me. I do believe that my knowledge gained at IMLI will enhance and contribute to the fruitful outcome in the maritime field of Turkmenistan. I deeply appreciate the contribution of The Nippon Foundation to my training at the Institute, since my studies were made possible thanks to the funds it provided.

IMLI was a wonderful experience. This was probably enhanced by the location of IMLI, i.e. Malta a wonderful island. The atmosphere of friendship and international co-operation pervaded IMLI every single day, but I most remember the intellectual discourse with the lectures and other students. Every day was a learning experience. IMLI has played an unrivalled role in my career. It has given me a deeper appreciation for international and maritime law and I regularly represent my country in international conferences at the IMO and other international organizations arising from my knowledge of the subject matter. It is also not uncommon for me to organize lectures and colloquia for Kenyan lawyers, judges and other professionals dealing with maritime law. The Nippon Foundation sponsored my education and I cannot thank the Nippon Foundation enough. Nippon Foundation should be aware that they are responsible for unleashing this maritime lawyer. Thank you Nippon Foundation.

The international feature of maritime law makes a place such as IMLI essential. When I was offered the possibility of studying in Malta, I knew it would be a great opportunity but everything happened to be better than expected: the knowledge acquired, lecturers, staff, and classmates. I deeply appreciate the contribution of The Nippon Foundation to my training at the Institute, since my studies were made possible thanks to the funds it provided. Being the first Argentine student to attend the course was an extra challenge, but everything was great. Studying at IMLI was an excellent opportunity to get top level education in both maritime and law of the sea issues. Also, I met people from different cultures and legal systems and had access to a huge maritime library, which is not available in my country. After graduating, I was appointed Head of International Regulations Section at the Argentine Coast Guard. This office reports to the Safety of Navigation Directorate and deals with the implementation of international rules in domestic law.  I was sent to the IMO Legal Committee several times as part of the Argentine delegation and could appreciate the importance of the training received at IMLI.

I am the Nippon Foundation Professor of Marine Environmental Law at IMLI. I have a very long experience in teaching world-wide and I consider the teaching at IMLI as the most worth- while experience so far. There are several factors which single out IMLI as the leading educational institution.  The teachers’ dedication is exemplary; the way they interact with the students goes beyond the routine student-teacher relationship; their manner of knowledge dissemination is very effective. It is also remarkable how students are dedicated to achieving excellence and I have a great pleasure in teaching them and debating various issues. Teaching at IMLI is the most worth-while experience as students are also practitioners who in turn share their knowledge acquired at IMLI, in their counties. Therefore IMLI fulfills a very important and fundamental role in spreading knowledge and supporting the development of the law of sea and maritime law. I am very happy that I can participate in this educational process due to the Nippon Foundation appointment.