Japanese Educators Visit Papua New Guinea Exploring Educational Institutions and JICA-Supported Projects to Strengthen Japan–PNG Exchange

　From July 25 to August 1, ten educators from across Japan visited Papua New Guinea (PNG) as part of the JICA Teacher Overseas Training Program (Education Administration Course).
　The program aims to help Japanese educators gain a deeper understanding of education and social development in developing countries, as well as JICA's international cooperation initiatives. During their stay in PNG, the participants visited educational institutions, schools, and development projects while engaging with students, teachers, and government officials.

Learning About PNG's Education System and Educational Cooperation
　As part of the program, the participants visited the Papua New Guinea Department of Education, the National Education Media Centre, and Bomana Teachers College.
　During these visits, they learned about PNG's education system, current educational challenges, teacher training initiatives, and JICA's support in the education sector. Discussions with PNG education stakeholders provided valuable opportunities to exchange ideas on improving the quality of education and addressing common challenges.

Educational Exchange at Schools in Sogeri
　The group also visited Sogeri Primary School and Sogeri National High School of Excellence in Central Province.
　At Sogeri Primary School, participants observed a mathematics lesson conducted by Mr. Junta Kanamoto, a JICA Volunteer working in mathematics education. The visitors observed students actively participating in class and saw how Mr. Kanamoto and local teachers worked together to support student learning.
　The participants also joined classroom activities and introduced traditional Japanese games such as origami and cat's cradle. The children enthusiastically took part in the activities, providing an enjoyable opportunity to experience Japanese culture.
　At Sogeri National High School, the group observed a Japanese language class. The program is supported by Mr. Sasase, a former JICA Volunteer who previously served in PNG. During the lesson, students and visitors introduced themselves in Japanese and exchanged views on culture, school life, and daily life in both countries.
　In addition, an exchange session was held with approximately 20 teachers from Sogeri Primary School. Japanese educators introduced Tokkatsu (Special Activities), a distinctive feature of Japanese education that promotes student initiative and personal development. PNG teachers shared their classroom experiences and educational challenges, leading to lively discussions and mutual learning.

Visiting JICA-Supported Environmental Projects
　In addition to education-related activities, the participants visited JICA-supported projects in the environmental and sanitation sectors.
　The group toured the Port Moresby Joyce Bay Sewage Treatment Plant and the Baruni Landfill, where they learned about environmental and public health challenges associated with rapid urbanization. The visits also highlighted how Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA) contributes to improving living conditions and environmental management in PNG.

Discovering PNG's Culture and Daily Life
　The participants also visited the Port Moresby Koki Fish Market and the National Museum and Art Gallery.
　At the fish market, they learned about local food culture and the distribution of seafood products, gaining insights into everyday life in PNG. At the National Museum, they explored the country's rich cultural heritage, traditions, and diverse ethnic identities.
　These visits provided a broader understanding of PNG society beyond the classroom and development of project sites.

Strengthening Japan–PNG Connections Through Education and Exchange
　The training program showcased PNG's efforts in education, environmental management, and cultural preservation, while highlighting JICA-supported cooperation activities across various sectors.
　Through interactions with students, teachers, government officials, and local communities, the participants gained valuable insights into PNG and strengthened people-to-people ties between the two countries.

　JICA will continue to promote educational cooperation, human resource development, and people-to-people exchanges that contribute to stronger friendship and mutual understanding between Papua New Guinea and Japan.