The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has selected Yu Jiajia of Dalian Maritime University to receive its 2027 Gender Equality Award.
T he decision was endorsed during the IMO Council’s 138th session, held in London from November 2 to 6, 2026, following her nomination by China. The award will be presented in May 2027, alongside celebrations marking the International Day for Women in Maritime on May 18 .
Yu Jiajia, a Teaching Chief Mate and instructor at the Navigation College of Dalian Maritime University, was recognized for her contributions to advancing gender equality, maritime education and professional opportunities for women.
Over the past 16 years, she has combined seagoing experience with teaching, research and mentoring. According to IMO, she became the first woman under the jurisdiction of China’s Liaoning Maritime Safety Administration to obtain a Certificate of Competency for service on ships operating in unlimited navigation areas.
With more than 50 months of seagoing service, she progressed through the ranks from cadet to Third Mate, Second Mate and Teaching Chief Mate. She also holds a Magnetic Compass Adjuster Certificate and has performed more than 50 compa...