NYK Conducts Short-term Study-abroad Program in Japan for Philippine Marine Students
Filipino Students Get a Chance to Explore Japan’s Maritime World
NYK recently held a special exchange program that allowed Filipino students to learn about Japan’s maritime industry. This was the second time the program was held, running from October 20 to 26. It brought together students from top maritime schools in Japan and the NYK-TDG Maritime Academy (NTMA) in the Philippines. NYK, a leading shipping company, manages this academy to train future seafarers.
Learning and Training in Japan
For this program, eight students from the NTMA traveled to Japan. They took part in hands-on training, including onboard ship training and cutter boat lessons, at Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. The students also visited the Hiroshima College of the National Institute of Technology. A special meeting was organized at NYK’s headquarters, where the Filipino students discussed their experiences with Filipino seafarers who are currently on shore duty.
Exploring Japan’s Maritime Culture
The exchange was not only about training. To help students understand Japan’s maritime world and its culture, they toured various places related to the industry. They visited the office of Japan Marine United Corporation in Tsu, the historical ship NYK Hikawamaru in Yokohama, and NYK Group companies like Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co. Ltd. and UNI-X NCT Corporation. The Filipino students also got to see the NYK Tokyo Container Terminal, gaining a deeper insight into Japan’s modern maritime operations.
Building International Friendships and Skills
The main goal of the exchange program is to help students develop an international mindset. It allows future seafarers from Japan and the Philippines to spend about a week in each other’s countries. They get to experience differences in language, culture, and learning styles through classroom sessions, practical exercises, and sightseeing. This year’s program was especially important because it restarted after a five-year break.
How the Program Was Conducted
Part 1: Japanese Students Visit the Philippines
- From August 19 to 26, students from Kobe University, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, and Nagasaki University visited NTMA in the Philippines.
- From August 23 to September 2, students from Toyama, Hiroshima, and Yuge colleges of the National Institute of Technology also studied at NTMA.
Part 2: Filipino Students Visit Japan
- From October 20 to 26, NTMA students went to Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Hiroshima College of the National Institute of Technology, NYK, and NYK Group companies.
Feedback from the Students
The exchange program received positive feedback from both Japanese and Filipino students. A Japanese student said, “It was exciting to experience the atmosphere of a foreign marine school. Everyone at NTMA was very welcoming.” Another student shared, “I was amazed at how much the Filipino students enjoyed traditional Japanese food like miso soup and natto.”
Meanwhile, an NTMA student reflected, “It was a valuable experience. I didn’t just learn about a different culture, but I also practiced skills that I had only seen in movies before, like starting a ship’s main engine. This program meant a lot to me.”
NYK’s Commitment to Future Seafarers
NYK is dedicated to helping young people who are interested in the maritime industry. They aim to shape future professionals by working closely with schools and research centers in Japan and abroad. These efforts are focused on developing skilled seafarers who can lead the maritime world in the years to come.
