Embassy of Japan held the Reception to Celebrate the Homecoming of JET Returnees and the Launch of the JET Alumni Association

On Friday, November 23, 2018 the Embassy of Japan, in cooperation with the Japan Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR), hosted a reception in Dusit Thani, Makati to mark two important events: the homecoming of Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme’s former participants and the launch of the JET Alumni Association (JETAA) in the Philippines.

Five JET participants returned from Japan to the Philippines in August this year following the completion of their work as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) under the program. It was through the proactive efforts of JET returnees from last year and this year that the JETAA Philippines was conceptualized and successfully launched. JETAA Philippines, like its counterparts all over the world, aims to systematize reintegration and support programs for JET returnees, help disseminate information about the JET Programme, and to contribute toward the program’s further development.

Minister Atsushi Kuwabara of the Embassy of Japan delivered the Opening Remarks at the reception. In his speech, he talked about the important role of alumni in promoting and further improving the JET Programme. Also present was Hon. J. Prospero De Vera III, Chairperson of Commission on Higher Education (CHED), who encouraged the returnees to share what they have learned from the program to fellow Filipino teachers and to continue being bridges of cooperation between the Philippines and Japan. The returnees delivered presentations on their work and life in Japan, as well as future prospects for the alumni association and the program.

The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is one of the largest and longest-running international youth exchange programs initiated by the Japanese Government.

Interested Filipino applicants may now send in their applications to the 2019 JET Programme. The deadline of submissions is on January 7, 2019.
Learn more about the JET Programme from this link: http://www.jetprogramme.org/en