June 25 'Day of the Seafarer' Special Event: Free Maritime Industry Networking Cruise for Students in Kobe

AIS Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Hiroshi Oura; hereinafter 'AIS'), an IT manufacturer providing core systems for the shipping industry, will host the 'Maritime Cluster Networking Event in Kobe Cruise' for students on June 21, 2026. This event is part of the project to establish 'June 25 as Day of the Seafarer' in Japan.

This initiative aims to bring together students with seafarers, shipping companies, and maritime-related businesses (Maritime IT, Maritime Media, etc.) to deepen their understanding of the industry. While seafarers and the shipping industry serve as essential infrastructure supporting Japan's logistics, their roles are often invisible in daily life.

On the day, the event will take place aboard a cruise ship touring Kobe Port, featuring participation from active seafarers and diverse professionals in the maritime sector. A quiz about the shipping industry (with prizes) is also planned, allowing participants to enjoy learning about the industry's mechanisms and roles. Furthermore, the event will provide opportunities for networking and information sharing among participants.

Under the concept 'Visible Gratitude for Invisible Work,' this project aims to visualize the social role of seafarers and improve their recognition. It is particularly focused on sparking interest in the maritime industry among the younger generation, contributing to the development of future industry leaders.

The event is offered free of charge for a limited number of students and includes the cruise experience and beverages.

- Event Name: Maritime Cluster Networking Event in Kobe Cruise - Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026 (Reception 11:30–12:00) - Location: Kobe Port Cruise Ship 'Concerto' - Eligibility: Students aged 18 and older (University, Graduate, and Vocational students; excluding high school students) - Participation Fee: Free (Limited to 40 people) - Content: - Networking with maritime industry professionals - Shipping industry quiz (with prizes) - Kobe Port cruise experience - Application Deadline: Monday, June 8, 2026 (Lottery if applications exceed capacity)

YouTube filming will take place on the day.

About 'Day of the Seafarer' Established in 2010 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) at the Manila Conference, June 25 marks an international day to recognize the contribution of seafarers to global maritime transport and to spread understanding and gratitude for their importance across society.