To the Development of Future Maritime Professional

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines,  announced that MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy , a maritime academy operated by MOL in the Philippines, has once again implemented an international exchange program with Japanese maritime education institutions , following the previous academic year. Building on diverse collaborations with Japanese maritime education institutions, the program aims to strengthen MMMA’s educational framework by fostering cross-cultural learning and developing globally minded maritime professionals.

[Short-Term Study Program at the National Institute of Technology “KOSEN,” Oshima College by MMMA Cadets]

In November 2025, MMMA cadets visited Japan and took part in a short-term study program at Oshima College. The cadets participated in onboard training aboard the training vessel Oshima-maru, gaining hands-on experience in actual vessel operations and maritime training environments, thereby experiencing Japanese maritime education firsthand.
During their stay, the cadets also visited MOL’s Tokyo Head Office, where they learned about the company’s business activities and interacted with employees. Through these exchanges, the cadets deepened their understanding of MOL’s safety-oriented operating culture and the maritime industry as a whole.

[Short-Term Study Program at MMMA by Students from Tokyo University of Marine Science (hereinafter “TUMSAT”) and Oshima College]

In March 2026, students from TUMSAT and Oshima College visited MMMA. They attended classes and practical training together with local MMMA cadets, engaging in academic activities and hands-on exercises that fostered cross-cultural learning and collaboration.

Participants’ Feedback

Students from both Japan and the Philippines shared the following impressions:

• “Being able to apply classroom knowledge onboard a vessel made the learning experience much more practical, and spending time with multinational maritime professionals and students helped me better envision my future career.”
• “The hands-on classes using ship-handling simulators were particularly impressive.”
• “Learning directly from instructors with real seagoing experience was an invaluable opportunity.”

These comments highlight the educational and cultural significance of the program.

Looking Ahead

MOL and MMMA will continue to promote international exchange programs to further enhance MMMA cadets’ cross-cultural understanding as well as their interest and knowledge of the maritime industry. At the same time, these programs will provide Japanese maritime students with valuable opportunities to develop a global perspective on the industry.
Through such initiatives, MOL and MMMA aim to continue contributing to the development of next-generation maritime professionals in both Japan and the Philippines, thereby supporting the sustainable growth of the global maritime industry.