1. What is SSEAYP?

The Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) is an annual youth exchange program aimed at promoting friendship, mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation among the youth of Japan and Southeast Asian countries. Participants embark on a journey aboard the cruise ship MS Nippon Maru, introducing each other and their countries, sharing their lives, engaging in various activities that foster meaningful intercultural dialogue, leadership skills, and international cooperation.

2. Who can participate in SSEAYP?

Youth leaders with ages 18-30 from ASEAN countries and Japan can apply to participate in SSEAYP.

3. How are participants selected in SSEAYP?

The selection process for SSEAYP is carried out by the implementing government agency in each participating country together with the local SSEAYP alumni association. In the Philippines, the National Youth Commission (NYC) conducts the selection process with the help of SSEAYP International Philippines (SIP) which includes screening of submitted applications, panel interview, and other assessments to identify the most suitable candidates.

The selection criteria in the Philippines generally include:

1. Age and Citizenship: must be within the age of 18 to 30, a Filipino citizen with a Philippine passport.

2. Leadership Potential: Candidates are assessed based on their leadership abilities, community involvement, and potential to contribute to international understanding among ASEAN member states and Japan.

3. Knowledgeable on current issues about ASEAN and Japan; and must have a strong background in Philippine history, geography, culture and arts and the region to be represented.

4. Communication Skills: Proficiency in English and the ability to engage in discussion activities.

5. Commitment: Applicants must demonstrate commitment to fully participate in the program, and must be willing to be an NYC volunteer, and conduct post-program advocacy activities. In addition, selected applicants must be able to attend the pre-departure training, online pre-meeting, pre-departure activities, exchange program, and post-program evaluation.

4. How many participants are chosen per country?

In 2024, each ASEAN country will have 15 participating youths (PYs) and 1 national leader (NL) in its delegation. Japan will have 20 PYs and 1 NL.

The number of participants varied over the years– from around 30 in the 70s, 45-50 in the early 90s, then about 28 when Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia fully participated the program.

5. How many days is the duration of the program and what time of the year does it happen?

In 2024, the program will be for 38 days commencing on November 4. Prior to the pandemic, the duration of the program was about 50 days starting in early October. 

6. Is SSEAYP a fully funded program?

Yes, SSEAYP is fully funded by the government of Japan.

7. How to apply for SSEAYP in the Philippines?

Watch out for application announcements in social media, and the websites of SSEAYP International Philippines (SIP) and the National Youth Commission (NYC) around April every year.