Friends of WMU, Japan is an alumni-based association that supports the mission and founding principles of the World Maritime University (WMU). The Association aims to contribute to the development of the global maritime and ocean community by promoting information exchange, strengthening professional networks, and fostering lasting fellowship among its members.
The Association is composed primarily of Sasakawa Fellows—graduates of WMU who completed their studies with the grant provided by The Nippon Foundation—along with current WMU Sasakawa Fellowship students and supporting members who endorse the Association’s activities. Together, these members form a diverse and interconnected community of maritime professionals spanning generations and regions.
Friends of WMU, Japan serves as a platform for networking and collaboration, enabling members to remain connected beyond their time at WMU and to share knowledge, experience, and opportunities. Through the activities, the Association helps strengthen ties among alumni and supports the continued professional development of its members.
The Friends of WMU, Japan Secretariat is hosted by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF), which provides administrative support for the Association under the auspices of The Nippon Foundation. The Secretariat plays a role on managing the membership, facilitating communication and networking among members, disseminating information on members’ activities, and supporting initiatives that advance the objectives of the Association.

The Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF), established in 1986, has worked since its inception to advance international exchange and cooperation. Leveraging the unique freedom afforded by its status as a private foundation, SPF explores innovative solutions and approaches to address the diverse and complex challenges of the 21st century, working in partnership with a wide range of domestic and international collaborators.


https://www.spf.org/en/

For general inquiries regarding Friends of WMU, Japan and related activities, please contact us by email.
 

Email: wmujapan@spf.or.jp

 

Fellowship Applications:

Please note that we do not handle direct applications for the fellowship program.

For inquiries regarding applications, please contact the World Maritime University.

 

Office Hours:

9:00–17:00 (JST, UTC+9), Monday to Friday

Closed on weekends and Japanese public holidays

 

Phone: +81-3-5157-5210

 

Address:

Sasakawa Peace Foundation

1-15-16 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8524, Japan  Google map

The office is located approximately one-minute walk from Toranomon Station (Exit 4).