The Japan Medium and Small Shipbuilding Industry Association is adding a new dimension to the educational experience of elementary school students by inviting them to visit shipbuilding yards and ship launches.

In February the students of three elementary schools will attend the launching ceremony of a 50,000 ton oil tanker at the Hiroshima Onomichi Shipyard. The tanker will transport refined petroleum products.

One of the reasons for holding these open house launchings is to simulate an interest among kids to choose a career in shipyards and sea-going ships. At present there is a steadily decreasing manpower in these professions.

Ship launching in progress

The Nippon Foundation is supporting the Shipbuilding Association to hold these educational visits for the public and school children.

A number of requests have been received from other prefectures that want to include shipyards in their regular school trip itineraries. Several schools in Shimane Prefecture are arranging for a shipyard visit in March.

This February’s launch in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture will be attended by shipbuilding officials, representatives of The Nippon Foundation, and the three elementary schools’ students.

The owner of the ship will give a welcoming speech, the national anthem will be played, and then the launch of the 50,000 ton, 182 meter long oil tanker will take place.