STI acquires Mandaluyong maritime school

MANILA, Philippines — STI Education Services Group Inc. has acquired NAMEI Polytechnic Institute (NAMEI), an educational institution that offers courses in maritime transportation and marine engineering and naval architecture.

STI president and chief operating officer Peter Fernandez said the entry of STI into NAMEI is aligned with the company’s  approach in building new paths and creating more opportunities for the Filipino youth to break into the professional world.

“We are very happy with the addition of NAMEI to STI ESG’s institutional roster,” Fernandez said.

With an estimated value of P727 million, the 10-story building stands on a 3,691-square-meter property and can accommodate 9,000 senior high school and college students.

Fernandez said the new campus would be operational for school year 2019 to 2020 and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including air-conditioned classrooms with flat screen TVs, industry-grade laboratories, simulation rooms, a basketball court, and a student activity center.

STI NAMEI will be housed in the newly constructed STI Academic Center Sta. Mesa along P. Sanchez Street, Sta. Mesa in Metro Manila.

According to data from the Philippine Statistical Authority and the International Maritime Organization, the Philippines is the world’s biggest source of seafarers, with Filipinos accounting for about 380,000 of the 1.5 million seafarers worldwide.

Fernandez said the move is an opportunity for STI to introduce exciting changes and transform NAMEI into an educational powerhouse whose students will bring pride not only to their alma mater but also to the country.

The acquisition is a strategic move to boost the institution’s sought-after courses that emphasize academic excellence, and practical and industry-driven skills that will produce more world-class professionals in various fields particularly in maritime.

STI aims to replicate its unique brand of ICT-enhanced, real life education in its goal of improving the prospects of the Filipino youth by equipping them with pertinent skills required by the industries while, at the same time, molding them to become well-rounded and responsible members of society.

The institution is also exploring a partnership with one of the biggest crew companies in the world to further train aspiring hospitality and culinary professionals.

A growing number of Filipinos also provide housekeeping, guest relations, culinary, front office, and other maintenance services on cruise ships and floating casinos.

“A good number of Philippine maritime education and training institutes continue to hone the skills development of our seafarers. It is high time we complemented this with high quality education to prepare a new generation of seafarers who are ready to join global cruise companies,” Fernandez said.