This program was prepared as part of Yamaguchi prefecture’s eastern district ‘Glo-cal Human Resources cultivation’ endeavor. Its goal is to cultivate individuals who are rooted in local regions but have international backgrounds that can be utilized in their local societies. We can proudly say this was an excellent opportunity for High School and College students of the Yamaguchi prefecture to receive exposure to foreign cultures and educational systems, and widen their field of view to an international level.
1.Activities on the Island of KauaiSuoh Ohshima Island and the Island of Kauai tied sister city relations in 1963, which is what brought students from Yamaguchi prefecture Suoh Ohshima Island High School to the 3 public High Schools of Kauai. Students divided into 3 groups and visited the following schools.
•Kauai High School
•Kapa’a High School
•Waimea High School
The Principal of Suoh Ohshima High School also made courtesy visits to Kauai County offices, having discussions of their thoughts on international relations. Through the school visits, students created bonds with the local students while putting their English skills into practice.
A. On the Island of Oahu, students participated in the “Genki Ball Project.” This project’s goal is to clean the Alawai canal, and ultimately find solutions to global marine pollution.
• Hosted by the NPO “Genki Alawai Project” established in 2019.
• Created the “Genki Balls” made of effective microorganisms, and deployed into the canal.
During this study tour, Students from Yamaguchi joined local volunteers to create Genki Balls, and helped deploy them into the canal. Students learned the importance of preserving our environment and sustainable procedures through these activities.
B. University of Hawaii at Manoa visit
Students joined for a campus tour, learning about the college facilities and school culture. They also ate lunch at the cafeteria and socialized with local students, giving them valuable experience in learning foreign school culture and broaden their horizons.
c.Japanese cultural center of Hawaii visit
Students learned about the history of Japanese immigrants and their contributions. The “Okagesama De” exhibit at the center displayed the history of their immigration beginning in 1868 and up to the present day. Students saw what values and cultures immigrants brought, and the troubles they had to go through.
Through these activities, the Students from Yamaguchi learned about foreign culture, and the origins of their own roots and values. HGEF will continue to work together with each prefecture and their governments to help the younger generation to better understand multicultural coexistence. I sincerely hope this study tour will help the students in days to come.