The much-awaited IUMI Master class in Cargo took place in London between 20-24 March 2023. The master class set in an informal seating arrangement, had 20 students representing all geographies around the world. Since it was an advanced course many of the senior underwriters from the developed market had also signed up for it. Mr Sanjiv Singh, Chair, Education Forum and Ms Hendrike Kuhl Policy Director attended the launch of the masterclass.

Day 1 began with Mr Lars Lange, the secretary general, IUMI introducing IUMI and the background of starting an in-person training program under its Education Forum. It was followed by sessions on the contract of affreightment covering Sea Air and Road transport as well as charter party and incoterms. The technical sessions were well conducted by the HFW team.

Day 2 covered International Programmes conducted by the course leader Christopher Hesselbrandt and Isabelle Therian, chair of the cargo committee of IUMI. Topics like special clauses and coverage extension were covered by Mike Roderick of Clyde and Co and Mr Sibesh Sen, member cargo committee.

Day 3 included a very interesting session on ESG by Richard Turner along with a visit to Lloyds of London.  On the final day of the master class, sanctions and protectionism and global threats to shipping were also covered. Feedback from students about the master class was excellent.

The success of the master class can be measured by the fact that only not only the 1st Master Class was oversubscribed but the next master class planned in October 2023 also had all the seats filled up within 8 days of the announcement of the programme.

IUMI masterclass as an advanced cargo educational program has started off very well and is poised to become one of the world’s best in class teaching program for senior marine practitioners.