As Germany has already a very good education situation in the area of export control and customs the impact on my working role was not that big as it might be in other countries. For me studying with CCES gave me a deeper understanding of how the European Legislation is influenced by the International Treaties. In my daily work life the studies help me to quicker research the laws and understand the impact for my business, which I consult and to implement measures with deeper knowledge. I find it very important to keep in touch with my fellow students, either to catch up in the different customs topics and how are they implemented in the various countries and to help each other, e. g. when looking for new job opportunities or challenges in the work with customs. 

Sabine van Osenbrüggen (Germany)

 Undertaking my master’s studies at CCES remains one of the best decisions in my career. As an aspiring customs and international trade expert, I had always wanted to be a notch higher than my peers! This meant I needed a higher qualification. When I discovered the Master of International Customs Law and Administration (MICLA) degree, I knew that I wanted to study it, and that decision would later impact positively on my career. 

Wilson Kimani Kang’ethe (Kenya)

 Having obtained a double Masters from CCES, my knowledge and analytical skills have tremendously increased. Prior to my studies, my knowledge of Customs laws and procedures was limited to my home country and countries within CARICOM. However I am now equipped with the knowledge at the global level, thereby making me marketable to work anywhere in the world. As a result, since graduating I have gotten the opportunity to do Customs work outside of my home country. I am currently a Customs Consultant working with the International Institute of Export and International Trade in the United Kingdom. My studies have empowered me to easily adapt and add value to this reputable organisation. 

Dadria Smith (United Kingdom)

 My decision to commit to four years of intensive study to achieve the CCES Double Masters was one of the most important I’ve ever made. The return on investment for the time and effort has been evident in the day to day activities I undertake as a full time Customs Consultant for Crown Agents. Whether it is delivering technical capacity building, designing training products or input into technical proposals for project tenders, I find myself continually tapping into the knowledge gained through these studies. 

Phill Norley (United Kingdom)

 This course fitted well with my role at the Corporate Planning Division. I have gained a better understanding of issues from a wider organisational perspective. Not only has it raised my personal status, it has also given me a greater awareness and understanding of particular issues and develop new skills as well as enhance existing skills. 

Kalaiselvi Muthu (Malaysia)

 The studies enhanced my strategical thinking which is a valuable tool for my daily work. It enables me to plan and organize the tasks for my team in a better way. My both studies, “Master of Customs Administration” and” Bachelor of Border Management” have been the perfect way to understand the needs of the own and the neighbour organizations. I could implement my theoretical skills into practice during my time as customs expert at the European Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine from December 2018 until November 2019 where a project to set up one-stop-shop Border Crossing Point in Kuchurhan was ongoing since 2016. 

Joerg Foerster (Germany)

 During my study, I had the opportunity to further research and read all materials from various different sources; I found that there are many comprehensive and complete sets of standards, guidelines and best practices on customs procedures that are useful and can be adapted by RMCD. I personally think that the excellent knowledge and experience that I gained from the course can be contributed to the Department in many ways. My career has progressed since completing my studies; I was posted to RMCD Headquarters at Goods and Services Tax Unit, which is a more challenging working environment. 

Zuraidah binti Zulkifli (Malaysia)

 The Master of Customs Administration has equipped me with the academic knowledge required to develop key skills for policy formulation and implementation in addition to management and leadership. This qualification from the prestigious Centre for Customs and Excise Studies (CCES) of Charles Sturt University has an immense impact in making me more proficient in my work. It is helping me to curve out a successful career as a professional in the Customs service. It has strengthened my claim for important posts and increased my competency to handle these sensitive assignments with confidence. 

Rizwan Mahmood (Pakistan)

 The successful completion of the MICLA course has assisted me to gain access to management positions in international operating companies. The course has helped me to improve my knowledge and understanding of customs and foreign trade laws as they apply to international commercial transactions. 

Stefanie Oppermann (Germany)

 CCES is the right place not only for customs officials from different administrations but also for legal practitioners, compliance officers from the private sector. From the time studying at the centre, I have had a great connection with other fellow Alumni who I have shared common professional and social interests. 

Tom Pham (Vietnam)

 Moving forward to the next level of academic qualification was always on my mind. It got even better when we became the first group from Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) to graduate with a Master of International Customs Law and Administration. CCES has indirectly assisted me in performing my duty as one of the RMCD officers that involve in tax reform in Malaysia. As a member of the GST Malaysia legislation team, the immeasurable experience and knowledge from the best lecturers and personnel of CCES has increased my level of readiness and my understanding of the aspects to be considered in reforming a taxation system. 

Zarina Nordin (Malaysia)

 My studies with CCES have had a tremendous impact on my career. I have been able to significantly contribute to my country as well as my organisation because of the knowledge I gained during my Master's degree. CCES's courses are both practical and up to the mark. 

Fayaz Rasool Maken (Pakistan)

 Studying the MICLA with CCES was a great opportunity for me to improve my skills. The course was well structured and relevant to the current practices and areas of customs. The knowledge I gained has been an asset to Rwanda Customs in particular as well as to the entire organization (RRA) in general. After graduating, I have been able to identify and formulate policies, practice and procedures relating to reform and modernisation for the Rwandan Customs. These initiatives have improved trade competitiveness and promoted trade facilitation. 

Ariane Akayezu (Rwanda)

 My CCES studies assisted in providing a solid foundation of international customs laws and regulatory compliance methodologies. It also strengthened my knowledge in international supply chain management and taxation. I also represent industry as the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) observer at the World Customs Organization Harmonized System Committee (HSC) and Review Subcommittee (RSC) meetings. The MICLA course in classification and the Harmonized System nomenclature helped to strengthen my understanding of this critical Customs foundational topic. 

Ken Montgomery (USA)

 Enrolling in the Centre for Customs & Excise Studies (CCES) study programme was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and a life changing experience for me as well as my family. During my studies with CCES, I enjoyed the constant feedback and guidance from the lecturers, as well as the course material where I got to know about different treaties, conventions, best practices and supply chain management to name a few. We also learned how customs organizations operate globally in conjunction with various role players like WTO/ WCO. I enjoyed interacting with my fellow students from all over the world and the one thing that stood out for me more than anything, is that no matter in which country we are and for which Customs authority we work, we all speak the same language and deal with the same issues. This made the studies so much more interesting. 

Rene Hattingh (South Africa)

 Having spent 25 years in the Swedish Customs administration in different positions, and the last seven years as Vice President, KGH Border Services, my decision to enroll for a Graduate Certificate and Master’s degree in Customs Administration was one of the best I ever made. My time with CCES and Charles Sturt University was so rewarding that I decided to continue my academic career by applying for a PhD. Candidature. Just having embarked on this journey, I am looking forward to several years’ of studies as well as new experiences and challenges to manage and benefit from. 

Patrik Heinesson (Sweden)

 The achievement of gaining a Master’s degree in International Customs Law and Administration has had a number of positive impacts on my working role since graduating, including helping to establish my credibility, increased my influence and impact on projects, and enhanced my confidence and knowledge. 

Graham Alexander Main (United Kingdom)

 Working as a Customs officer for many years provided me with practical experience suitable to the role but, to paraphrase a former US Secretary of Defence, “I didn’t know what I didn’t know”. Study provided a solid platform of theory on which to apply reform and modernisation of a Customs administration. I now more fully appreciate the inter-connectivity of Government and Government agency drivers, and those of trade, industry and other stakeholders, whether domestic or international. 

David Wintrip (Australia)

 My current position, as the deputy commissioner of customs for policy and compliance, is directly related to the knowledge and skills I acquired at the Centre for Customs and Excise Studies. The program gave me a broad understanding of how customs operates as it relates to international trade. Because of my understanding of the dynamics of international customs laws and their relationship with other national and international laws, I am confidently applying some modern customs management styles that will enhance my country’s revenue generation capacity. I feel more confident discussing customs issues with my international counterparts. 

Mohamed H Bility (Republic of Liberia)

 My studies with the CCES enhanced my Customs knowledge which inevitably reflected within my work environment with many initiatives and improvements that were implemented in my administration as a direct result of my studies. Obtaining the Master of International Customs Law and Administration has given me an advantage for applying for higher positions at the Jordanian Development Areas Commission. This degree has also given me the drive to publish books on Customs related issues, for example, the compendium of WCO Agreements in the Arabic language and the International Common Customs Glossary both in Arabic and English, for the benefit of Customs, trade and academia in the MENA Region. 

Mohammad Fayez Obeidat (Jordan)

 My time studying with the CCES, and completing the MICLA course, has manifested in a number of benefits that range from being specific to more general in nature. The specific advantages include the establishment of a sound knowledge foundation of customs’ enduring principles and common functions together with an appreciation of particular instruments necessary for effective planning, implementation of initiatives or the provision of advice. An improved capacity to navigate international law and agreements has also been highly useful in my current role. 

Michael Crawford (Australia)

 The course gave me with a greater / wider understanding of the strategic factors affecting Customs administrations and border management environments, from both the international and domestic perspectives and this has been really useful in my current role. 

Chris Bourne (New Zealand)

 The Maters of International Customs Law & Administration has enabled me to advance to my current position and expanded my horizons generally. I am sure that the skills I have now in my personal tool kit as a result of the Maters study has and will assist me in providing sound advice in my work area dealing with the national coordination and training of staff conducting activities under the national Infringement scheme in Australia. My experience with the Centre was good considering I was in full-time work balancing a normal life with academic studies. I found the academic and support staff very accommodating and supportive throughout my journey. 

Anthorr Nomchong (Australia)

 Initially I was Manager Customs IT. Upon my return from CCES, my Director moved me to Manager Post Clearance Audit because of my Customs qualification from CCES. A couple of months later I was further relocated to Manager Border Control and Enforcement. He has further moved me to the office of the Deputy Director Customs on an acting basis while the current Deputy Director is on indefinite leave. 

Stanley Trief (Vanauatu)

 3 months after graduation I got promoted to become the regional head for customs and regulatory affairs for 21 countries, so yes the impact was very positive. I live in Dubai and if anyone has plans to pass by it would be great to catch up for a drink! and maybe advise you on must see locations in Dubai or show you around if time permits. 

Sajan Thomas (Indian National – UAE Resident)

 When the Masters of Customs Administration (MCA) was offered through the Postgraduate Institute of Management through the University of Sri Jayawardenapura, and CCES, I grabbed it with both hands as I knew this program would help me to move from one level in the ladder to another level. The Centre for Customs and Excise Studies opened their gate for me and gave me hands-on experience through project-assignments. I am today what I am, thanks to CCES. 

Ravindrakumar Sumathy (Sri Lanka)

 After completing my studies I was selected by our administration to start and head up a new division in Customs Operations which deals with beleaguered industries which have been identified as priority by Government. The knowledge gained from my CCES studies stood me in great stead to deal with the various industry bodies and to be able to speak with authority on various matters dealt with by Customs such as intellectual property rights and supply chain security. 

Helena Tripmaker (South Africa)

 Being a longstanding member of the resource person’s panel in Sri Lanka Customs and being a WCO accredited trainer in Customs valuation, the knowledge acquired through the Master of International Customs Law and Administration has helped me to enhance the substance and quality of my capacity building activities. 

M.M.M Rishafy (Sri Lanka)

 As my work tends to be in the specialist area of Customs Reform and Modernization and, increasingly, in trade facilitation the topics covered in my CCES course genuinely helped me expand my overall background knowledge thus giving me more confidence and structure in the approach to my work. The CCES Master's Program is held in high esteem and it has brought me recognition and work opportunities at the highest level. 

Luc Pugliatti (Italy)

 Soon after completing my Master of International Customs Law & Administration and upon my return from leave to Jordan Customs I was promoted to the rank of Colonel and appointed Assistant Director, Amman Customs Centre. The Master's course enhanced my understanding of the strategic factors affecting Customs administrations and border management environments, from both the international and domestic perspectives. I am proud to be the first person from the Middle East region to complete this master’s degree. 

Jamal Olaimat (Jordan)

 My studies have given me a broad and truly global perspective on the regulation of trade by Customs and other authorities at global, multilateral, regional and national levels. The insight and understanding I gained from the time I spent studying with the CCES has benefited me in my work as an international consultant on Customs reform and modernization projects around the world as well as helping me provide more impactful export assistance to SMEs. 

Anthony Cambas (USA)

 The discipline of study helped give me a better mind set to considering issues from all perspectives, i.e. Government agenda & obligations, regulatory, law enforcement, traveller experience, industry and other stakeholder dimensions. It also helped me to appreciate that these things are intrinsically interconnected. 

Craig Somerville (Australia)

 At the time of graduation, I held the position of Comptroller of Customs and Excise of the Ministry of Finance, Trinidad and Tobago. My CCES studies empowered me to successfully lead the reform and modernisation of the Customs and Excise Division of Trinidad and Tobago by transitioning the organisation from a manual paper-based system to one that is technology driven. 

Fitzroy A. John (Trinidad and Tobago)

 My studies with CCES have provided me with a fruitful knowledge base that is useful in my current role at the GDT. It has also provided me with a good insight into relevant areas, namely direct and indirect taxation policies and administration as well as regulatory compliance, which are directly related to my current role. As a result of my studies I am now in the habit of conducting full research on topics before presenting my reports to stakeholders. Moreover, as I studied the course online, the time I spent with CCES has further developed my self-discipline and time management skills, which are essential in professional career life. I would like to share a quote: “learning is the way to acquire new knowledge and skills and perfection is just a matter of practice”. 

Dr Seng Cheaseth (Cambodia)

 Prior to my graduation, I was head of the Post Clearance Audit Unit. Undertaking the CCES MICLA course has helped me to advance my careers. After completing my course, I have been able to look at Customs at an international level and understand global best practice. This knowledge helps me to advise my department to adopt the best practices. 

Jackline Murekatete (Rwanda)

 I discovered that the discipline and focus in research that CCES provided during the course has helped more than anything else while I go about my business of consulting, teaching and training in International Trade and Customs. I was always familiar with import regulations such as product classification, trade security and rules of origin issues specifically in the US which after attending MICLA classes, I came to realize were not that much different than in other countries either. But it did give me a razor-sharp focus when speaking on these topics with my students and peers. 

Ashok Sadhwani (USA)

 CCES studies help me today to retain a balance between academic theory and pragmatic based business decision-making. It also is a source of continued reading on contemporary issues within the field of customs and international trade. CCES regularly publishes relevant papers and research studies, which consistently offer informative and educational insights. 

Damon Paling (New Zealand)

 It is very easy to remain within our comfort zones, to focus on local or regional issues, and to avoid adversity or uncertainty. I would challenge each of us to seize the opportunity that the CCES has provided; to continue to build on our network of alumni and colleagues; to share our experiences (whether successes or failures); and to never hesitate to reach out and help each other. The CCES has given us a tremendous opportunity; it is now up to us to go forward and use our knowledge where it is most needed. 

Peter Rickard (Canada)

 The topics covered and perspectives gained during the course interactions have prepared me to face the day to day challenges of running a customs administration. Decisions are easier to make when you have good resources to draw from. The material collected during the course is truly invaluable and I would recommend the course to those who are seeking a solid stepping stones to higher places in customs management. 

I.V. Mazorodze (Swaziland)

 Studying at CCES was an opening for me to the operation of the international Customs administrations. It exposed me to various tools and instruments of the World Customs Organization, the most notable one being the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC). Studying in CCES gave me an opportunity to compare the operation of the Bhutanese Customs administration with the international Customs administrations in line with the RKC and other best practices. I could identify the areas where the Bhutanese Customs is lacking and came up with a list of recommendations. 

Wangchuk Thayey (Bhutan)