The IAMU member universities in Asia, Pacific and Oceania Region (Region 2) had a virtual meeting on January 14, 2021, led by VADM Eduardo Ma. R Santos, AFP (Ret), President of MAAP. The participating members shared experiences about their operations amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and discussed ideas for cooperation.

The agreed possible cooperation areas include sharing learning materials and programs, sharing expertise, publishing a newsletter, assessment support, joint online conferences/webinars, joint research collaborations, and joint development projects for funding.

The institutions also shared challenges caused by the COVID 19 pandemic.

  • Australian Maritime College, University of Tasmania (AMC) did well in 2020 with its previously established blended learning. They conducted risk assessments and considered government protocols to implement new measures concerning onsite activities and online training.
  • Ho Chi Minh City University of Transport (UT-HCMC) learned more about the online class system. It had resumed face-to-face instruction in mid-2020 as Vietnam was able to combat COVID19 excellently.
  • Indian Maritime University’s (IMU) biggest challenges were their students’ admissions, practical examinations/workshops, and their graduates’ employability. Their government used the IMU campuses as Covid 19 centers.
  • Maritime State University, named after Admiral G.I. Nevelskoy (MSU), also conducted theoretical learning online and shipboard training following health protocols.
  • John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) experienced setbacks on internet connectivity, online assessments, and enrollment reduction but had sustained its operations.
  • Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP), with students kept safely housed within its campus, continued classes using online learning platforms and its Learning Management System. Following strict health protocols, MAAP conducted limited laboratory works and monitored online simulator exercises. Although met with challenges, MAAP continued working, received ISO21001;2018 accreditation; and gained approval from CHED for the offering of its new Electro-technology program.

Posted by Angelica Baylon, MAAP