Bridge Simulator at FSM Fisheries and Maritime Institute Successfully Upgraded with Support from The Nippon Foundation

Monday, November 09, 2026 /// DYCA PIO

Yap FM - Abay, FMI, Yap. The bridge simulator at the FSM Fisheries and Maritime Institute (FMI) in Yap has been successfully upgraded through the generous support of The Nippon Foundation, further strengthening maritime education and training opportunities in the Federated States of Micronesia and the region.

Originally donated to FMI in 2015 under the project “Enhancing Coast Guard Capabilities for the Three Micronesian Countries,” also funded by The Nippon Foundation, the simulator has served as a vital training resource for more than a decade. It has provided cadets and maritime professionals with realistic, hands-on navigation training, helping to develop the practical skills essential for safe and effective vessel operations.

Following years of continuous use, the simulator has now undergone a comprehensive upgrade, reflecting The Nippon Foundation’s ongoing commitment to maritime education, workforce development, and capacity building throughout Micronesia.

A technical team from the Japan Association of Marine Safety (JAMS) and MARIX carried out the upgrade from October 26 to November 3, with support from a Wärtsilä engineer. The project included significant hardware and software enhancements that modernized the simulator system and expanded its training capabilities to better meet current industry standards and instructional needs.

With the upgraded simulator now fully operational, FMI is well positioned to continue delivering high-quality, practical maritime training to future seafarers and maritime professionals. The enhanced system will support the institute’s mission to develop a skilled and competent maritime workforce for the Federated States of Micronesia and the region.

FSM FMI extends its sincere appreciation to The Nippon Foundation, the Japan Association of Marine Safety (JAMS), MARIX, and Wärtsilä for their generous support, technical expertise, and commitment to strengthening maritime education. Their contribution, including the simulator upgrade and installation and the training provided to FMI’s navigation instructional staff, will have a lasting impact on maritime training and workforce development in the region.

(For more information, please contact the COM-FSM Yap Campus at 350-2296)