The International Shipping Development in South and Southeast Asia visited the Myanmar Maritime Academy
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2025-10-14

On the afternoon of September 24, 2025, a delegation from the Research Center for International Shipping Development in South and Southeast Asia visited Myanmar Mercantile Marine College (MMMC) under the Ministry of Transport of Myanmar. Vice President Mr. Kyaw Kyaw Win and other college leaders warmly welcomed the visiting delegation. In a friendly and enthusiastic atmosphere, both parties engaged in in-depth discussions on topics including shipping talent cultivation and international cooperation.
Detailed Introduction: A Comprehensive Overview of the College

The predecessor of MMMC was IMT, established in 1963 in Yangon by the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Transport as the Nautical and Engineering Cadet Courses. Initially, it primarily trained military maritime personnel. In 1971, the program became independent as the Mercantile Marine Training School under the Ministry of Transport, shifting its focus to civilian maritime technical training. In 1972, the school was renamed the Institute of Marine Technology (IMT), marking its transition from a purely training institution to one integrating research and education. In 2009, it was finally designated as the MYANMAR MERCANTILE MARINE COLLEGE (MMMC), a name retained to this day. Following its upgrade to college status in 2009, MMMC intensified international cooperation. By 2015, its curriculum was formally integrated into the STCW Convention framework, enabling graduates to directly apply for International Certificates of Competency (COC). Post-2020, responding to the IMO's “Green Shipping” initiative, it introduced cutting-edge courses on vessel emissions reduction and new energy applications. In collaboration with China's Jiangsu Maritime Vocational College, it adopted the “Four-Ship Rotation” training model. The college participates in the ASEAN Maritime Safety Project, training port security personnel for Southeast Asian nations. It explores cross-border certification recognition mechanisms with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, facilitates international employment for Myanmar seafarers, and stands as the core institution for maritime education in Myanmar.
Visit the Campus in Person: Experience Authentic Atmosphere
After listening to the detailed introduction, the college leadership warmly invited the delegation to tour the campus.

First, the delegation arrived at the teaching area. Upon entering one of the classrooms, Vice President Kyaw Kyaw Win introduced the visiting delegation to the students in session. Delegation member Zhou Ling warmly conversed with the students. To everyone's delight, as the exchange concluded, the students responded with “thank you” in standard Mandarin. These two simple words carried the warmth of China-Myanmar friendship, allowing everyone present to experience the charm of cultural exchange.

Subsequently, the delegation toured the student dormitories, sports fields, and playgrounds. The dorm rooms are designed for two occupants each, reflecting the college's commitment to student well-being. This tour of the living facilities allowed the delegation to witness the institution's dedication to fostering students' holistic development.
The most impressive part was the tour of the practical training rooms and laboratories. These facilities are equipped with various maritime professional equipment, including ship navigation simulation systems, nautical instruments, and marine machinery equipment. Students can conduct hands-on training here, transforming theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom into practical skills. Mr. Kyaw Kyaw Win explained that the college places great emphasis on practical instruction, requiring every student to complete a specified number of practical training hours before graduation. This practice-oriented teaching philosophy aligns perfectly with the vision of the Research Center for International Shipping Development in South and Southeast Asia.


Deepen Cooperation: Build a Brighter Future Together

This visit serves as an important reciprocal visit following Mr. Kyaw Kyaw Win's previous trip to Kunming to attend the inauguration ceremony of the Research Center for International Shipping Development in South and Southeast Asia. Through on-site inspections and in-depth exchanges, the delegation gained a more authentic and concrete understanding of the Myanmar Mercantile Marine College, while also recognizing the broad scope and promising prospects for bilateral cooperation.
Looking ahead, both sides can pursue practical cooperation in multiple areas including employment, mutual visits, and scientific research. This visit has laid a solid foundation for future collaboration. With joint efforts, we are confident that fruitful outcomes will be achieved, contributing to the development of the shipping industry in South and Southeast Asia and adding a new chapter to the friendly relations between China and Myanmar.
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