A First Step Forward: How Japan Inspired Sogeri Students' Futures

On 23rd July, students from Sogeri Primary School who have participated in an international exchange program with Japan safely returned to Papua New Guinea. At the Jacksons Airport, they were warmly welcomed and greeted by their families and school staff, sharing heartfelt moments of reunion.

During their stay, the students had a wide range of valuable experiences, including attending Japanese school classes, staying with host families, engaging in cultural exchanges, and learning about history and science and technology.

With shining eyes, the students shared their memories, saying, “We want to learn more about Japan!” and “We want to go again!”

Upon their return, the students also responded to an interview with a local TV station. One of them, overwhelmed with emotion while recalling the fun memories in Japan, began to shed tears. The scene moved the adults around them and clearly showed how deeply the journey had touched their hearts.

This experience undoubtedly opened a door to the world for these children and marked a significant step toward expanding their dreams and future goals.

The students’ return also brought deep emotion and appreciation to their families. One parent expressed heartfelt gratitude to Japan and many people involved in the program for making this opportunity possible.
“At first, I was a bit anxious about sending my child abroad,” the parent shared, “but I’m truly grateful that they had the chance to experience a new culture. It was a valuable and life-changing experience.”

JICA will continue to support initiatives that expand children’s learning and potential.

You can view the arrival scene at the following link（YouTube EMTV)
Sogeri Primary School students return from Japan