Today, we celebrate a significant milestone for the graduates of Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. As they step off the familiar shores of academia and onto the vast, unpredictable ocean of the real world, they carry with them a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the marine sciences. But what does this mean for the future of the maritime industry? Let’s dive in.
Firstly, these graduates are not just leaving with degrees; they’re embarking on a journey to become experts in their fields, ready to tackle the complex challenges that our oceans present. They’ve been drilled in the importance of communication, of working with diverse teams, and of standing their ground when they know they’re right. This is not just about academic prowess; it’s about practical application, about being able to say, “That’s good,” when it is, and to challenge when it’s not.
President Toshio Iseki’s speech hit the nail on the head when he talked about the importance of being a “Muzu kore kijin”—someone who doesn’t hide their true nature, who works calmly and diligently, and who becomes a key member of the team. In an industry as diverse and interconnected as maritime, this attitude is gold. It’s about collaboration, about understanding that the ocean doesn’t respect disciplinary boundaries, and neither should we.
Take, for instance, the work of Professor Shukuro Manabe. His research on climate change didn’t happen in a vacuum. It was a culmination of efforts from various fields, all coming together to create something extraordinary. This is the kind of synergy we need more of in the maritime industry. We need oceanographers talking to engineers, biologists chatting with data scientists, all working towards a common goal.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. The maritime industry is facing some serious headwinds, from climate change to overfishing, from pollution to piracy. These graduates are stepping into a world where the stakes are high, and the challenges are real. But they’re not alone. They’ve got a network of alumni, a supportive university, and a global community of professionals ready to back them up.
And let’s not forget the elephant in the room—the declining birthrate in Japan. The maritime industry, like many others, is facing a skills gap. But these graduates, with their open minds and collaborative spirits, could be the key to bridging that gap. They’re not just here to fill jobs; they’re here to innovate, to challenge norms, and to spark debate.
So, as these graduates set sail on their new ships, let’s wish them fair winds and following seas. But let’s also challenge them. Challenge them to push boundaries, to question the status quo, and to always, always communicate. Because that’s what the maritime industry needs. It needs people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, to roll up their sleeves, and to dive in headfirst.
And to the university, keep up the good work. Keep fostering this spirit of collaboration, of open-mindedness, of “Muzu kore kijin.” Because that’s what’s going to shape the future of the maritime industry. It’s not just about the knowledge you impart; it’s about the attitudes you instill. And from what we’ve seen today, you’re doing a darn good job.
