First Class IV Graduates Mark New Chapter for FSM Maritime Sector: “A Historic Voyage: Vision Realized, Legacy Begun”

Tuesday, September 01, 2026 /// DYCA PIO

Yap FM - The Federated States of Micronesia marked a historic milestone in maritime education on Friday, August 28, 2026, as the FSM Fisheries and Maritime Institute (FSM-FMI) celebrated the graduation of its first-ever Class IV Master and Marine Engineering cohort, with Mr. Myles Mailing, Corps Commander, serving as Master of Ceremonies.

Nine experienced seafarers completed the eight-month program—five in Navigation and four in Marine Engineering. Eight graduates are from Yap and one from Pohnpei. With support from their employers, they returned to FSM-FMI to strengthen their professional knowledge, skills, and qualifications before returning to their respective workplaces.

Seven graduates serve aboard the Yap State ship MV Hapilmohol 2, one works for Vital-FSM Petroleum Corporation based in Chuuk, and one assists with marine piloting operations at the Port of Yap. The first Class IV program represents a significant step forward for FSM-FMI and the nation’s maritime training system, allowing experienced seafarers to advance their qualifications within the FSM rather than leave the country for higher-level training. Three graduates—two in Navigation and one in Marine Engineering—also completed their oral examinations and will be recommended by FSM-FMI to the Department of Transportation, Communications and Infrastructure (DTC&I) for issuance of their Certificates of Competency, subject to completion and verification of all requirements.

The historic ceremony was attended by His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, and First Lady Mrs. Simina, who were invited to witness the nation’s first Class IV graduation. They joined the Acting Governor of Yap, members of the Yap State Legislature, traditional leaders, senior national and Yap state officials, College of Micronesia–FSM leadership (VPIA), the JICA Resident Representative in the FSM, maritime partners, families, friends, and FSM-FMI cadets.

In his keynote address, President Simina emphasized the essential role of maritime services in connecting the FSM’s island communities. Referring to the recent typhoon in Chuuk, he highlighted how disruptions to transportation can quickly affect the movement of people and essential supplies. During such emergencies, qualified maritime personnel and reliable vessels are vital to delivering food, fuel, equipment, emergency supplies, and assistance to island communities in need.

The message reflected the broader purpose of the Class IV program: a nation divided by land but connected by its vast blue ocean needs skilled maritime professionals to keep its communities connected, supplied, and resilient.

FSM-FMI recognized the support of the FSM National Government, College of

Micronesia–FSM, Yap State Government, employers, industry partners, families, and the community, as well as the Government and people of Japan for their continued support of maritime education and capacity building.

The Institute also recognized Vital-FSM Petroleum Corporation and Yap State Public Works and Transportation for supporting their employees’ professional development and participation in the program.

For the nine graduates, the ceremony marked the completion of an intensive professional journey. For FSM-FMI and the nation, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in advanced maritime education—raising the level of professional qualifications in the FSM and paving the way for future seafarers to reach higher levels of competence, leadership, and responsibility.

(For more information, please contact the FSM Fisheries and Maritime Institute at 350-5244)