Global Classmates

 

 

Global Classmates is an online language and cultural exchange program organized by Kizuna Across Cultures (KAC) that connects high school students studying Japanese in the U.S. and English in Japan. Taking place in their everyday classroom, students become classmates with their peers abroad and engage with each other through the exchange of messages, photos and videos on a variety of topics, all without needing to travel. The 6-month exchange is an innovative educational program, in which the students develop friendships, deepen understanding of each other’s cultures, and naturally improve their language skills.

The TOMODACHI Initiative has supported Global Classmates since 2015, connecting over a thousand Japanese and American students from 42 high schools.

KAC is looking for schools that have a teacher who is passionate about offering such an experience to students, a reliable internet connection at school and students who are curious. They work with teachers to provide students with an opportunity they may otherwise not have had in hopes to inspire youth to look beyond their communities, embrace diversity, and become active global citizens.

To learn more about KAC and Global Classmates, please click here.