In 2018, English teacher Ms. Melissa Columna was one of 44 public school teachers who participated in PTC-CSJ Foundation’s My Ship My World (MSMW) Project. After six years, Ms. Columna happily shared that four of her former Grade 6 MSMW students are now pursuing maritime studies. She added that her own son, who is now in Grade 12 and participated in MSMW, desires to become a seafarer, too.

MSMW aims to introduce the world of shipping to young grade school students. For 4-6 weeks, teachers like Ms. Columna exchange an email with a Ship Officer on shipping-related topics which the teacher then integrates into his/her lessons on Math, English, Science, and other Subjects.

Students, teachers, and Ship Officers alike have given positive feedback on MSMW. As one Captain shared, “My crew and I were happy that we had inspired young students (and teachers) by sharing our lives and experiences on board.”

While MSMW’s real impact may yet be seen after another four years or more when former MSMW students have graduated and pursued a maritime career, the early results look highly promising.

MSMW is an initiative under the leadership of IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador and founder of Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTC), Carlos C. Salinas.