Ninety-two students at The University of the South Pacific (USP) have been selected to participate in the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) project.
This year’s programme is unique as it will see two projects: the 2022 JENESYS Phase II and the JENESYS 2023 programme running concurrently.
Of the 92 students, 62 are under the JENESYS Phase II, a hybrid programme that comprises 41 travelling participants and 21 who will join the online session. The remaining 30 will travel under the JENESYS 2023 programme.
The 2022 JENESYS Phase II was earmarked yesterday alongside the launch of the JENESYS 2023 project at the USP Laucala Campus.
Organised by the USP International Office, students will visit Japan and participate in various activities to immerse themselves in the rich culture, traditions, and cuisine, amongst other unique Japanese experiences.
At the event, Charge d’affairs of the Embassy of Japan Kenichiro Tanaka said the two projects will encourage and promote friendship between Japan and Pacific Island countries and deepen mutual understanding. This is in line with the focus on Priority Areas of Cooperation 5, which is People-to-People and Human Resource Development, as deliberated upon in the 9th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting.
“It is a privilege and an honour to be in the Pacific and experience your unique and rich culture. I have been to many events in Fiji, and each time, the hospitality and friendliness of the people blew me away. This is something we have in common.”
“We recognise the importance of culture in the Pacific, and this opportunity will also allow students from the Pacific to learn Japanese culture and allow us to learn from you as well.”
“More than 1,950 students have benefited from the JENESYS project, and I hope your visit to Japan next month will be memorable with enjoyable experiences.”
As part of the student’s study tour to Japan, they will visit Fukushima and Hiroshima Prefectures, get involved in workshops, school visits, homestay and participate in a cultural performance.
Addressing the participants, USP Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chair of the JENESYS project, Dr Giulio Paunga, said, “This is a unique opportunity for our students to get hands-on experience aligned to the thematic areas of regional development, peacebuilding and culture.”
“It is also in line with our efforts to promote the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Through this, we aim to collaborate and strengthen our relationship in various areas such as culture, politics and diplomatic relations.”
The project provides fully funded study tours to Japan for University students between 18 and 34 enrolled in degree or higher-level programmes.
For many years, the Government of Japan has promoted people-to-people exchange, especially among the youth between Japan and the Pacific, to foster mutual understanding. The close collaboration involves coordinating bodies in liaison with the Embassy of Japan representatives in the participating countries and various Universities and Colleges.
