Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, announced that in July 2025, MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy , in the Philippines, signed a comprehensive agreement with 5 National Institutes of Technology ), Toyama College, Toba College, Hiroshima College, Oshima College, and Yuge College in Japan-with the aim of further development and cooperation in international exchange programs. MMMA will work to increase exchange opportunities through the exchange of faculty members, students, and academic information among each academy, strengthen mutual research and educational processes, and cultivating a global perspective for future seafarers

Before signing this agreement, MMMA accepted four students (including one woman student) and two faculty members from Oshima College and six students (including two women students) from Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology for one week each in March 2025 to conduct an international exchange program. In this program, the Japanese students shared meals and living quarters with MMMA students, attended the same lectures, and participated in practical training using simulators and actual ship equipment in the bridge and engine room at MMMA’s “Ship in Campus.”

A Cultural Show brought both schools together, showcasing lively performances of contemporary dance, pop music, and traditional dances representing Japan and the Philippines. Following the program, students from both institutions mingled and shared joyful moments. Despite the brief interaction, they successfully bridged gaps in lifestyle, culture, and teaching approaches, fostering meaningful new connections.

(Left) Briefing for 3rd year students of Navigation department before use of bridge simulator
(Right) Scene from the Cultural Show exchange

The comprehensive agreement will enable all five schools to participate in the program, which was previously open to only one school. In addition, MMMA will further deepen international exchange and diversify learning to support the young people who will play a leading role in the future of the shipping industry.

MOL will continually strive to train and create jobs for seafarers, leading to “human success and community development,” which is one of the group’s sustainability issues, and as a responsible leader in the social infrastructure business, it will continue to support people’s day-to-day fundamentals through “safe” operations.