On June 7, 2022, the NYK-TDG Maritime Academy (NTMA) held its first graduation ceremony since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, marking a significant milestone in the academy’s history and the lives of its graduates. Located near Manila, Philippines, NTMA is a collaboration between NYK Line and the Transnational Diversified Group (TDG). The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including NYK’s President Hitoshi Nagasawa, Senior Managing Executive Officer Tomoyuki Koyama, and TDG Chairman J. Roberto C. Delgado, along with distinguished guests such as Kazuhiko Koshikawa, Japan’s ambassador to the Philippines, and Vice-Admiral Robert A. Empedrad from the Philippines Maritime Industry Authority.

This graduation celebrated the 10th class from NTMA, comprising 134 students who successfully navigated their education through the challenges posed by nearly two years of pandemic disruption affecting their onboard training. Established in 2007, NTMA is noteworthy for being the first Japanese maritime academy in the Philippines. Over its 15 years of operation, a total of 1,252 students have graduated, many of whom now serve as officers or engineers on NYK-operated vessels.

Notable milestones include the achievements of NTMA graduates in the past two years: in April 2021, an alumnus became the first graduate to become captain of an NYK ship, while another graduated in April 2022 as the first chief engineer from the academy. These accomplishments underscore the academy’s mission to cultivate qualified maritime professionals who not only find success at sea but also assume significant land-based roles that contribute to safe shipping operations globally.

NTMA, which enrolls about 120 students annually split between marine navigation and marine engineering, employs approximately 70 instructors and staff. The curriculum lasts for four years, consisting of three years of academic study complemented by one year of onboard experience. The academy aims to develop global seafarers through a rigorous educational framework that emphasizes practical maritime technology and a strong sense of humanity.

In conclusion, the return to in-person graduation at NTMA symbolizes resilience and the enduring importance of maritime education, particularly in a time of global uncertainty. With its commitment to producing skilled maritime professionals, the academy plays a vital role in the maritime industry, furthering the careers of its graduates both at sea and on land.