During June and July, Mitsui & Co. hosted 12 students from Queensland University of Technology and Deakin University for two weeks at its headquarters. This latest contribution reflects our ongoing commitment to the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan (NCP) program. Since 2015, we have hosted 64 NCP students.

In Tokyo students learned about Mitsui’s history, business, and relationships with Australia. They also made visits to the Toyota factory; Nippon Steel Sumitomo Metals steel mill; and the Australian Embassy Tokyo.

At the end of their stay, students showcased their new knowledge by delivering presentations to Mitsui’s executives.

Reflecting on her experience, Queensland University of Technology law student Eshani Mendis says, “My involvement in the Mitsui Immersion Program in Tokyo has been one of the greatest opportunities I have experienced. It challenged my personal and professional growth and development. I feel fortunate to have gained an insight into one of the world’s largest general trading companies whilst embracing Japan’s diverse culture.”

The NCP aims to make Australia’s young people Asia-literate – lifting their knowledge of the Indo-Pacific region.

Armed with 45 years of experience sending over 350 students on its own Mitsui Educational Foundation study tour to Japan, Mitsui & Co. (Australia) was the first non-Australian company to support the NCP.