Brandon Potter graduated among the top in his class of 130 students from the World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden on November 2, 2024 with a Master of Science degree in Maritime Affairs with specialisation in Port Management.
The UN-sponsored scholarship offered to young Potter and his fellow students from 130 countries around the world who work at their countries’ ports, is geared to infuse global Port Operational strategies, a release said.
During his studies at the World Maritime University, he visited a number of countries where he observed the operations of some of the world’s largest and most important ports, including Denmark, Germany, Tokyo and Poland. He gleaned an education which will help boost the connectivity and efficiency required to operate an international port, as Antigua pushes forward in Caribbean Port leadership.
“It is also important to note that of the 130 students from all over the world in the World Maritime University Master’s Programme for the class of 2024, Potter was the only one who did not get support from his home port. Instead he was asked to resign to accept the scholarship. He is also the only one who returned home to no job, however this is being resolved,” the release added.
Potter was afforded this honour to present himself for leadership, from his first scholarship earned from Antigua Port Authority, at which he excelled during his Jamaica sojourn at their Marine College.
It should be noted also that, in Jamaica, Potter had difficulty being accepted into the Marine Cadet programme because of his dreadlocks, but he graduated in Port Operations.
While in Europe, his entire personality and dynamic energy was very well received, and he accepted his certification amid cheers and shouts from his fellow students and his professors.
He was asked to resign because the Port Manager did not approve… let’s see what the country does with this young professional of the soil.