Japan-run maritime school helps Philippine students set sail

A graduation ceremony for about 90 students took place on Tuesday at the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy near Manila.

Maritime students graduated from a university cofounded in 2018 by a local firm and Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines.

They aim to address a global shortage of skilled sailors compounded by soaring demand in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Other Japanese shipping companies have established similar schools in the Philippines. About half the graduates now plan to work for shipping companies based in Japan.