Organisations : A Message from the IMO Secretary-General and WMU Chancellor

Dear Colleagues and Students,

The spread of the coronavirus is concerning for everyone. My thoughts go out to all of you who have been or may be affected by this unprecedented event. Some of you may even be far away from home and your loved ones.

Throughout our history, IMO together with WMU and IMLI have faced challenges, big and small, and have come through them all by voyaging together and supporting each other.

Our duty of care drives everything that we do; the safety and wellbeing of our staff members, students and their loved ones is our absolute priority.

I would like to reassure you that we at IMO, along with you, intend to carry on as best as we can to ensure the same excellent output we would expect from us over the coming weeks. 

I am heartened to learn that lectures are being carried out remotely and the students are happy with the virtual way to pursue their lectures. In this connection, I highly commend the proactive attitude and effective precautions you have taken to adjust to the challenging circumstances.

Having said that, I am also anticipating the feelings of loneliness and isolation you may feel at some point in the near future. It is very important to start to explore ways of how to keep you engaged, motivated and resilient by working/studying virtually. Wherever you are, near or far, I urge you all to continue supporting each other as one big family. I want to reassure you that we will continue to care for our staff, students and families alike, and truly do hope everyone remains safe and calm through this turbulent situation.

I would also like to say a huge thank you to all staff and students for the commitment and support during this exceptional time. I wish you and your families well.

With kind regards 

Mr. Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization and WMU Chancellor