His heart beats for seafarers: HSB student Michael Pasion receives DAAD prize

“Michael Pasion's commitment and social attitude are remarkable,“ says HSB President Prof. Dr. Konrad Wolf. “He is not only an outstanding student in terms of his achievements. In his free time, he is also involved in events such as the annual Seafarers' Day and maritime conferences. And he does fundraising for the German Seamen's Mission. I am delighted that we are able to honour his commitment with the DAAD prize. Michael Pasion is an enrichment for us. Society needs people with such an attitude.“

Award winner: “What seafarers achieve is often overlooked“

“Receiving the DAAD award is a great honour for me, I am very grateful for it,’ he says. „The award motivates me to continue working for the welfare of seafarers.“ Michael Pasion's dream is to take on a leadership role after completing his studies, where he can influence politics, business and industry to support the welfare of people working at sea. Because what seafarers do is often overlooked, he says.

Even before Michael Pasion came to Germany, he worked closely with seafarers. „“Hearing their stories and understanding their struggles drives me to make a positive contribution to the maritime community,“ he says. “Volunteering allows me to give back and support those who are often overlooked. People often don't realise the important role that shipping plays in our daily lives and the sacrifices that seafarers make“, says the student. Their contribution is usually invisible to people. They work in harsh conditions and are separated from their families at sea for long periods of time.

“For example during the COVID pandemic seafarers were faced with extreme situations, especially repatriation issues. Many were stranded on ships or abroad and were unable to return home due to global travel restrictions. “ Despite these challenges, they kept the global supply chain running and ensured that vital goods such as food and medicines reached the shops.

“Bremen is an ideal place to study shipping“

This is the Philipino's first time in Germany. And Bremen has become a second home for him. “I like the efficiency and organisation in Germany and Bremen in particular, “ he says. The city's strong Hanseatic and maritime tradition makes it an ideal place to study shipping. “I'm very happy that I chose HSB, because both the city and the institution are a perfect match for my academic and professional interests. “

HSB offers DAAD prizewinner an international and supportive learning environment

Michael Pasion enjoys the international atmosphere at HSB. “My course in International Studies in Shipping and Chartering is very diverse and I come into contact with people from different backgrounds.The faculty, the Centre for Maritime Studies and my fellow students create a supportive learning environment that makes my time here really enriching.“

And what does the student miss about his home country? “My family, the vibrant culture and, of course, the sun in the Philippines“, he says.

About the DAAD Prize

Every year, universities in Germany award the DAAD Prize to international students for their outstanding academic achievements and high level of personal commitment. The money is provided by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).The students who have received such an award through their host university represent their fellow students from all over the world. They are future partners for Germany in business, politics and science.

Read a news about the welcoming event in the town hall