Center of Research and Innovation in Maritime Affairs (CRIMA) at Minhaj University Lahore organized the 3rd Winter School on Maritime Affairs (WSMA), aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14, 'Life below Water'. The event aimed to explore and formulate actions for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, recognizing their significance in climate regulation and livelihood provision.

The WSMA began with a Quranic recitation and an opening speech by Worthy Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Sajid Mehmood Shahzad, highlighting the school's role in fostering learning, collaboration, and innovation for a sustainable maritime future. Aligned with SDG 14, this year's WSMA reflected CRIMA's commitment to addressing oceanic challenges.

The event provided a platform for participants to stay abreast of developments, trends, and strategies in maritime affairs. CRIMA's intellectual contributions through schools, seminars, webinars, conferences, and publications like the journal J-NESS and newsletter 'Nautical Eye' were emphasized.

Over five days, distinguished speakers covered topics ranging from blue tourism and marine protected areas to maritime security and sustainable practices in the industry. Experts from various institutions shared insights on geopolitical implications of maritime diplomacy and promoting sustainability in the maritime sector.
Dr Muhammad Ishfaq, CRIMA's Director, concluded that the WSMA 2023 successfully addressed SDG 14, offering recommendations for maritime improvement. He highlighted CRIMA's extensive efforts, including seminars, schools, exhibitions, festivals, conferences, and collaborations with national and international institutions. CRIMA's publications, including J-NESS, were recognized for their contribution to maritime studies.