Application Open for the TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative: Climate and Food System Awareness Program

The TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative: Climate and Food System Awareness Program is a leadership development program, designed to address the pressing global challenges of climate change and its intertwined relationship with agriculture. Over a 10-month period, this initiative will engage 20 university students – 10 each from partner institutions in Niigata, Japan and Texas, USA – in an immersive curriculum. The curriculum focuses on self-awareness, reflection, and sustainability, while also delving deep into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) concerning agriculture and climate change.

With a hybrid approach of virtual engagement and two in-person gathering, participants will gain first-hand experience of diverse agricultural practices and environments. Students will be provided with an unparalleled opportunity to delve deep into the diverse agricultural ecosystems of both regions. Texas, known for its agricultural and coastal environment, will shed light on the challenges and innovations in agriculture pertinent to such terrains, especially in the context of climate change. On the other hand, Niigata, with its lush landscapes and rice cultivation, will offer insights into traditional agricultural practices harmonized with nature. This unique blend aims to foster international collaboration, providing students with a platform to share insights, experiences, and innovative strategies, ultimately preparing them to champion sustainable agricultural solutions for our rapidly changing world. 

To learn more about the program, please visit the program website.

 

Application for U.S. Applicants 

Eligibility

To be eligible for and successful in the program, you must: 

• Be an undergraduate student from Texas A&M University at College Station or Galveston campuses in Texas, who study agriculture, environment and/or related study areas.
• Have strong interest in climate change, agriculture, food systems, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Have interest in Japanese language and culture. 
• Complete the application form and submit all required information by the deadline.
• Be available to participate in an online selection interview.
• Be able to actively participate in the entire program (online and in-person).
• Have a strong desire to contribute to the future of the community and society through their learning from the program.
• Have no or little experience of traveling overseas
• Be flexible and cooperative, able to adapt to different cultures, and in good physical and mental health.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to continue to contribute to the U.S. and Japan relations.

Application Information & Timeline

• Submit Application: Complete the online application by detailing your background, interests in sustainability, and future plans. 
• Application Deadline: May 31, 2024 at 11:59 pm CST 
• Attend Interview: The interview is an opportunity for selected candidates to have in-depth discussion about your interests, understanding of sustainability, and your aspirations. 
  • Timeline: Mid-June, 2024
• Receive Decision: 10 finalists will be notified of their status after interviews. 
  • Timeline: Early June 2024
    *Participants will be initially screened based on their application information and selected candidates will be offered interviews online. Please indicate your availability for interviews on the application form.
• Information Sessions
  Meet with the program coordinators and get your questions answered. Sign up from here.
  • April 24 (Wed) at 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm CST 
  • April 27 (Sat) at 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm CST

Overall Program Schedule (for those accepted to the program)

• Phase 1: Online Learning Component
  Introductory sessions on leadership, climate change, SDGs, and the food systems
  Dates: October – December, 2024
  Number of online ZOOM sessions: 5 
• Phase 2: In-Person Gathering in Texas, USA
  Hands-on learning with sustainability initiatives relevant to agriculture and climate.
  Dates: March, 2025
  Number of Days: 6 
• Phase 3: Online Learning Component
  Integrating learning and connection from the U.S. and project implementation
  Dates: April- June,  2025
  Number of Days: 2 
• Phase 4: In-Person Gathering in Niigata, JAPAN
  Exploring agricultural practices and food systems from a different cultural perspective.
  Dates: July, 2025
  Number of Days: 6 
  *IMPORTANT: Participants must attend all sessions across each phase. Above schedules are subject to change.
  

Program Cost for U.S. Participants

Items that the program scholarship covers:

• Coursework and guest speakers
• Roundtrip travel between Texas and Niigata
• Accommodation for international participants in Niigata

Items that the program scholarship does NOT cover:

• Passport application
• Visa application (if needed)
• Cost to have the Internet environment and devices for online sessions
• Personal expenses outside program activities 
• $200 administrative fee for the Education Abroad Office to receive their support for Texas A&M College Station campus students

Other Reminders

• Engagement in all program phases is mandatory.
• Personal development and cross-cultural understanding are key program outcomes.

Contact Information 

Contact RootSpring, an implementing organization of the TOMODACHI Tanaka Sangyo Agricultural Exchange Initiative: Climate and Food System Awareness Program, at info@rootsring.org if you have any questions.

TOMODACHI Initiative

The TOMODACHI Initiative is a public-private partnership between the U.S.-Japan Council and the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, with support from the Government of Japan. Born out of support for Japan’s recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, TOMODACHI invests in the next generation of Japanese and American leaders through educational and cultural exchanges as well as leadership programs. The initiative seeks to foster a “TOMODACHI Generation” of young American and Japanese leaders who are committed to and engaged in strengthening U.S.-Japan relations, appreciate each other’s countries and cultures, and possess the global skills and mindsets needed to contribute to and thrive in a more cooperative, prosperous, and secure world. Visit us at www.tomodachi.org for more information.

Program Partners

Administered by: the U.S. Japan-Council (Japan) TOMODACHI Initiative
Sponsored by: Tanaka Industry Co. Ltd.
Implemented by: RootSpring
Supported by: Niigata Prefecture, Joetsu City, and Texas Department of Agriculture