A degree of change

Adjusting course

“The World Maritime University isn’t just any educational institution – it’s a prestigious centre established by the International Maritime Organisation,” says Ramatjie noting the pedigree of the WMU and its standing within the international maritime community.

Late last year, he joined a group of four South Africans embarking on the journey to Malmö, Sweden to begin their studies. Highlighting the fact the other members of the group were all women, Ramatjie says that this is a testament to the country’s commitment to ensure female representation at all levels of the industry.

Working for SAMSA and having interacted professionally with the many alumni that have headed off annually to participate in the WMU programme, Ramatjie says that he has always been inspired and impressed with the quality of the students – and admits that he has long toyed with the idea of reading for one of the programmes at the university.

“In 2022, I decided that the time was right for me due to a combination of factors,” he says explaining that the year marked his 12^th anniversary at the Authority and that the COVID pandemic had prompted him to think about his future career prospects.  

“Leaving South Africa was a daunting step. I had never been away from home for more than a year, and here I was, committing to a 14-month academic adventure in a foreign country. The weather in Sweden was a stark contrast to our warm South African spring – a real shock to the system,” he says recalling his introduction to the new environment when he arrived in Sweden last year.

With no real time to breathe and take in the surroundings, Ramatjie recalls that the group was quickly thrown into the academic year.

Challenging curriculum

“The curriculum at WMU was nothing short of challenging and engaging. It began with an intensive first term, laying the foundational maritime knowledge. The specialisation phase that followed was even more demanding, with experts from around the world leading us through complex projects and seminars,” he says.

With a fascination for how ship registers are structured, Ramatjie chose to focus his dissertation on the South African Ship Register. He sees the enhancement of the country’s registry as a vital element to achieving a successful maritime sector in South Africa.

“I found the topic both challenging and rewarding,” he says explaining that there is potential to improve the potential of the registry.

“By aligning our legislation; enhancing administrative procedures; adhering to international standards, and leveraging our unique advantages, South Africa can significantly improve the competitiveness of its maritime ship registry,” he says as he highlights key aspects of his research.

Set up for success

But it was not only the syllabus that caught his attention. “Life in Sweden was refreshingly different,” he notes admitting that the level of organisation and predictability represented “a pleasant change” to what he was used to back home.

“The punctuality and reliability of public transport were particularly impressive,” he says.

A Schengen visa afforded the opportunity to get out of Sweden and explore a number of other destinations.

“I visited the Netherlands, Germany, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and the UK. Highlights included visits to the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea – experiences I will always cherish,” he adds.

More than a degree

“Now, as I return home, I bring back not just a degree but a wealth of experiences, ideas, and a renewed vision for contributing to the maritime sector. My time at WMU was more than educational; it was a transformative journey that has equipped me to make meaningful contributions to the maritime world,” he says adding that he hopes that the skills he has gained will contribute to the objectives of SAMSA as well as the country.

But Ramatjie has bigger ambitions for the future that include further study and the aim to seek international opportunities.

“In the long term I wish to complete PHD and also join the IMO secretariat or any of the United Nation’s agencies.

“From this journey, I gained an internationally recognised qualification, invaluable insights and knowledge. I had the opportunity to interact with some of the brightest minds in the maritime industry, forged lasting friendships, and built a global network.”

Tapping into these networks, and while still in Sweden, Ramatjie launched a maritime podcast called The Connect in which he connects with maritime colleagues from around the world.

“It is an exciting venture that complemented my studies and allowed me to share my passion with a broader audience,” he says. The podcast continues to broadcast interesting topics and can be found on Spotify.

The opportunity to attend the WMU continues to be available for South African maritime professionals and Ramatjie shares some advice for those who may be interested in applying for the scholarship programme.

“A passion for the maritime industry is very important for anyone wanting to engage in this programme. In choosing a dissertation topic I would advise that you choose a topic that will assist you to learn more about your chosen subject,” he says adding that the university provides access to excellent resources and experts to assist one really immerse oneself in their chosen subject matter.

“My story is a mix of academic rigour, personal growth, and a series of unforgettable adventures. My experience at WMU has been a pivotal chapter in my life, and I’m eager to see where this path leads me next. Life, I’ve learned, is about embracing new challenges and making the most of every opportunity that comes your way.”

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