#Banana Kids #Marine Jobs #Japan Project

Inspiring the Next Generation: Marine Jobs Presentation

On November 9, 2025, the Japan Marine and Ocean Project in Tokyo held the 'Marine Jobs: Banana Kids' presentation, targeting elementary school students nationwide. This event was designed to address the urgent shortage of skilled workers in the maritime industry, showcasing the findings of students from across the country.

The 'Marine Jobs: Banana Kids' program, aired on TV Tokyo, selected 30 students from a pool of applicants to present their research on various ocean-related professions. Each student passionately shared the social significance, allure, and their dreams related to marine careers they had investigated.

This initiative is part of the 'Japan Foundation Marine and Ocean Project,' which aims to foster connections among people through the ocean, ensuring a rich and beautiful marine environment for future generations.

Event Overview

• - Target audience: Elementary school students nationwide
• - Requirements: Submission of the 'Marine Job Research Report' and presentation
• - Number of presenters: 30 students (selected from nationwide applicants, with 3 students presenting online)
• - Presentation content: Focused on the students' research on ocean careers, their significance, and future aspirations.

Dates and Venue

• - Date: November 9, 2025
• - Time: 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• - Venue: Inside TV Tokyo Corporation, 3-2-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Official Site: Japan Marine and Ocean Project

A Diverse Array of Marine Careers on Display

Students from across Japan gathered to present their findings on an exciting range of marine-related jobs. They spoke about careers such as becoming a ship captain, working as an aquarium keeper surrounded by beloved sea creatures, and traditional professions like a bonito flakes craftsman. The presentations also covered unique roles that require specialized knowledge, like this enigmatic field of creating models of giant sea creatures for museums. Their creativity and enthusiasm infused the room with energy.

These young presenters prepared meticulously, using costumes, props, and even live harp music to enhance their presentations. They aimed to effectively communicate the enchanting allure of marine jobs, illustrating their research and perspective with passion and ingenuity.

Inquiry and Engagement Among Peers

Participants eagerly engaged in lively discussions, posing thoughtful questions to each other like seasoned professionals. The atmosphere brimmed with mutual respect as students appreciated their peers' dedication and knowledge. This collective exchange fostered rich debates and learning opportunities.

During the breaks and before and after the presentations, students interacted actively, moving between tables, showing off their unique props and specimens, and sharing their experiences and insights related to their investigations.

Voices from Participants and Parents

Elementary Students Remarks:

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