Marseille Kicks Off the Ceremonial Openings of the Academic Year!

On Tuesday, September 1, the 177 first-year officer cadets enrolled in the polyvalent officer programme gathered in the amphitheatre for their official welcome ceremony.

Cyril Delher, Site Director, expressed his pride in welcoming the first-year students for the start of this five-year programme — a decisive milestone in shaping both their personal and professional journeys.

François Lambert welcomed the students with great emotion, as 2027 will mark the end of his tenure as Director General of ENSM. He highlighted the tremendous challenges awaiting the students as they become key players in the energy transition and in addressing social change, particularly the School’s ongoing and determined fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), as well as its commitment to raising awareness of these issues throughout the students’ training. The Director General concluded by thanking the teaching staff and shipowners for their continued and dedicated support of the officer cadets.

Emma Lac, a student and President of the Bural, announced the names of the godmother and godfather chosen for this class: Christine Cabau Woehrel, EVP Assets and Operations at CMA CGM, and David Bensussan, Marine & Port Operations Manager at Orient Express. The students will have the opportunity to benefit from their guidance and share their experiences with them throughout their training.

Guillaume Vidil, guest of honour and Managing Director of Marfret, as well as a former student of the School, addressed the future officers, reminding them that less than 20 years ago, he was in their shoes. Guillaume offered them part of the answer: “What this school gives us is not just a degree; it will shape your career and part of your life (…) You will learn the seafarer’s profession in the right place!”

Candice Le Tourneur, City Councillor in charge of education, research and student life, expressed her pleasure at being present. In this changing world, she highlighted the growing role of women in maritime professions: “You all have your place here.”

Finally, Christophe Lenormand, Interregional Director for the Sea, emphasised the close and privileged relationship between the merchant navy and the School.

Welcome on board!