So, what exactly is the Ship for World Youth?

I just realised that I haven't put much information about the Ship for World Youth. Here's some info taken from the website - http://www.swyaustralia.org/

"The Ship for World Youth (SWY) is a unique international cultural exchange program organised by the Government of Japan. The most prestigious program of its kind, SWY brings together over 250 youth from around the world to learn about international cooperation and understanding. Over a two-month period, participants are involved in a wide range of activities aimed at fostering cultural sensitivity, understanding and friendship. Most of the program is conducted onboard the cruise liner Nippon Maru, with some activities scheduled in Japan, and others in a number of seaports that are visited in the course of the voyage.
Commencing in 1989, the program is run on an annual basis. Each year a different mix of nations is invited to participate and a different ports of call are incorporated into the itinerary."

"The aims and objectives of the Ship for World Youth are:

• To foster the spirit of international cooperation and the competence to practice it
  
• To promote friendship and mutual understanding between the youth of Japan and the youth of other parts of the world
  
• To broaden the international awareness of participants
  
• To develop youth capable of playing leading roles in various sectors of their societies and in turn contribute to the sound development of youth in their respective countries"

Hope that makes everything a bit easier to understand ... Peace out.

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