Application Open for the TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program
The TOMODACHI Toshizo Watanabe Leadership Program is a training program for high school students from all over Japan who will lead the next generation and contribute to the U.S.-Japan relations in the future. Through homestays and school visits, students interact with U.S. students and are exposed to U.S. history and diverse and explore diverse narratives. This immersive experience expands their horizons, equipping them with invaluable international perspectives and leadership acumen.
Application Requirements
Period of the U.S. Training
Wednesday, August 14, 2024 – Sunday, August 25, 2024
Number of Applicants
Approximately 20 students
2 faculty members
Application Requirements
(Students)
- Students who are enrolled in the first to third year of high school or technical college in Japan at the time of travel in August 2024
- Those who are physically and mentally healthy, and able to participate in all programs
- Japanese nationals or permanent residents
- Those who can participate in the orientation (online) on July 7, 2024
- Those who can participate in the pre-departure training on August 13, 2024
- Those who can make a presentation about their experience in the program at their school after the completion of the program
- Those who agree with the purpose of the program and are willing to actively and cooperatively participate in a cross-cultural environment
- Those who have never traveled abroad before, or those who have little travel experience
- Those with an Eiken Grade 2 English level. Those who are willing to learn English and communicate actively in the local language
※ Applicants who have traveled to the U.S. on previous TOMODACHI programs are not eligible to apply.
※ Applicants who have allergies or are taking medication may be asked to submit a doctor’s note.
※ Participants are required to submit program questionnaires and assignments.
（Faculty）
- Those who are working as a teacher at a high school or technical college in Japan at the time of travel in August 2024
- Those who are physically and mentally healthy, and able to participate in all programs
- Japanese nationals or permanent residents
- Those who can participate in the orientation (online) on July 7, 2024
- Those who can participate in the pre-departure training on August 13, 2024
- Must be able to support the students’ learning and lead discussions and reflections during the program.
- Those who agree with the purpose of the program and are willing to actively and cooperatively participate in a cross-cultural environment
※ Applicants who have allergies or are taking medication may be asked to submit a doctor’s note after being admitted to the program
※ Applicants are required to submit program questionnaires and participate in meetings with relevant personnel
Participation Fee
Expenses to be borne by the Program:
Round-trip transportation from the Shinkansen station or airport nearest to your home to the meeting/dismissal point, round-trip international airfare, travel insurance, ESTA application fee, accommodation expenses (lodging, meals, various activities) during the program, transportation, lodging, and meals for pre-departure training, and expenses related to the novel coronavirus countermeasures required for entry into the United States and Japan, etc.
Expenses to be borne by participants:
Passport acquisition costs, personal expenses, doctor’s note costs (for eligible participants), expenses related to the novel coronavirus (partial costs incurred if infected during the program), and communication costs for participating in the online orientation etc.
Application deadline
Friday, May 10, 2024
For details and application, click here (Japanese only).
