The recently concluded 43rd in-house training program for students from different maritime higher institutions (MHEI) at Meiji Shipping Group was a significant event, highlighting the talents and skills of maritime students including five from Our Lady of Fatima University’s College of Maritime Education (CME).
The Meiji Shipping Group (MSG) hand-picked three students from OLFU CME’s Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) program and another two from the Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE) program as notable apprentices and future leaders of the maritime industry; subsequently subjecting the trainees to an intensive course from September 25 to December 21, 2023 at MSG’s MMS Building in Bacoor City, Cavite.
Proudly representing OLFU during the rigorous training were BSMT’s Bernard Joseph Cayetano and Mark Jonas Lundag. The latter was recognized as the cluster’s Top 2 and Best in KUMON. On the other hand, BSMarE’s Myles Maverick Panaguiton emerged as the Top 3 in ranking within his batch.
For the upcoming batch whose training begins sometime in January 2024, it will be the turn of Merwin Taer (BSMT) and Myles Maverick Panaguiton (BSMarE) to prove their mettle.
The selection process for this program was meticulous with a focus on academic excellence, practical skills, and leadership potential. The students from OLFU stood out among their peers from various institutions, demonstrating exceptional abilities in their respective fields.
During the training, the BSMT students were exposed to navigation techniques, vessel operations, and maritime safety protocols. They were trained in the use of state-of-the-art equipment and simulators, providing them with a priceless hands-on experience that is crucial for their future roles as mariners.
Meanwhile, the BSMarE students, delved into the technical aspects of engine operations, maintenance procedures, and the latest advancements in marine engineering. Practical sessions allowed them to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing their technical expertise.
Leadership and teamwork exercises were also infused into the training program, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and effective communication in the maritime industry. These modules were designed to develop the students’ soft skills which are essential for their professional growth and success in a team-oriented environment.
With the culmination of the training marked by a ceremony where the trainees received their certificates of completion, the event was attended by dignitaries from the Meiji Shipping Group and OLFU. The success of the students was celebrated, and they were encouraged to continue pursuing excellence in their maritime careers.
This collaboration between OLFU and the Meiji Shipping Group is a testament to the importance of industry-academia partnerships in enhancing the skills and employability of maritime students. It likewise showcases OLFU’s commitment to producing maritime students who can compete on a global platform, contributing to the country’s reputation as a leading provider of competent maritime professionals.
Meiji Shipping Group, renowned for its excellence in maritime services and training, offered an intensive training program that focused on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The training was designed to provide students with real-world experience and insight into the maritime industry, preparing them for future careers in this field.
The expansive Meiji Shipping Group currently owns Multinational Maritime, Inc., MMSPhil Maritime Services, Inc., Phil-Crewing Maritime Services, Inc., and MK Maritime Training Center, Inc. These established companies specialize in comprehensive maritime expertise, contributing to both local and global naval industries.
Story contributed by: 2nd Engr. Mark Antony Ramos
