Japanese maritime delegation visits Rauma to explore Finland’s simulator-based STCW Training
On 24h to 26th of January 2026 Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK) and the Maritime Logistics Research Center hosted a high-level Japanese maritime delegation in Rauma. The visit focused on Finland’s advanced simulator-based maritime education and its role in shaping future international STCW training requirements.
The three-day programme, hosted by Minna Keinänen-Toivola, chief researcher at the Maritime Logistics Research Center (SAMK), combined Finnish maritime heritage with in-depth professional dialogue on maritime education, regulation, and competence development.
Maritime Heritage and Cultural Programme in Old Rauma
The visit included a guided cultural programme in Old Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved wooden towns in Northern Europe.
The delegation was introduced to Rauma’s long maritime history, traditional wooden architecture, local handicrafts, and seafaring culture. The programme offered the guests an authentic introduction to Finland’s coastal heritage and maritime identity.
Focus on Maritime Education, STCW and Simulator Training at SAMK
The benchmarking visit took place at Satakunta University of Applied Sciences in Rauma. The programme focused on Finland’s maritime education system, competence-based training models, and the use of advanced simulators in officer education and certification.
The delegation explored SAMK’s maritime simulator environment, including bridge, engine room, and VTS simulators, and discussed how simulator-based training is integrated into maritime curricula and professional certification. The maritime education and simulators were presented by Janne Lahtinen, Marko Löytökorpi, Antti Värre, Jarmo Teränen, and Kimmo Kauko.
Finland is internationally recognised as a pioneer in simulator-based maritime education, and SAMK’s training model provided a concrete reference case for the Japanese delegation.
A central theme of the discussions was the ongoing comprehensive review of the STCW Convention at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Japan is currently examining possible approaches to allow part of the required seagoing service for initial Certificates of Competency (CoC) of deck officers to be substituted with high-quality simulator-based training.
Supporting the global development of maritime competence standards
The visit was organised in the context of Japan’s active role in the IMO HTW Sub-Committee, where future developments of the STCW Convention are being discussed.
The delegation represented Japan’s leading maritime authorities and education institutions:
- Master mariner Koki Matsushima, professor, Japan Agency of Maritime Education and Training for Seafarers (JMETS)
- Mr Shohei Goto, Chief, Seafarers License and Education Division, Maritime Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT)
- Captain Asami Shimada, Chief researcher, Technology and Research Department, Maritime Human Resource Institute
The visit strengthened professional cooperation between Finland and Japan in developing future-oriented maritime education, digital learning environments, and international competence standards. The delegation’s visit highlighted Finland’s strong position as a trusted international partner in maritime education, digital learning solutions, and STCW development.
Satakunta University of Applied Sciences and the Maritime Logistics Research Center continue to contribute actively to international maritime education development, IMO processes, and the global evolution of simulator-based training.
