Japanese Language Brings PNG and Japan Closer

［Goal 4］ Quality Education

［Goal 17］ Partnerships for the Goals

2026.08.19

On 16 August 2026, the Japanese Language Workshop and Japanese Speech Contest were held at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG).

The event brought together Japanese-language learners, teachers, and people involved in Japanese-language education from across Papua New Guinea. Participants joined a Japanese-language workshop and a friendship session before taking part in the speech contest.

Students Share Their Dreams in Japanese

Eleven contestants delivered speeches in Japanese on topics such as Japanese culture, technology, anime, and their future goals. Many participants spoke about their interest in Japan and their hopes of visiting the country one day. Their speeches demonstrated not only their Japanese-language ability, but also their confidence and determination to challenge themselves. For many students, learning Japanese is more than a classroom subject. It is a way to connect with another culture and explore new opportunities.

Encouragement for Future Learning

The event was attended by H.E. Mr. Mochizuki, Ambassador of Japan to Papua New Guinea, and Mr. Shirouzu, Chief Representative of the JICA PNG Office.

Both congratulated the contestants on their efforts and encouraged them to continue studying Japanese and exploring opportunities for exchange between Papua New Guinea and Japan.

H.E. Mr. Hisanobu Mochizuki presents awards to the top contestants.

Mr. Shirouzu interacting with participants in Japanese.

A New JICA Volunteer Meets Future Students

The event also gave Mr. Kutomi, a newly arrived JICA Volunteer specializing in Japanese-language education, an opportunity to meet some of his future students from Sogeri National High School of Excellence, where he will begin teaching in September.

Mr. Kutomi interacting with future students at Sogeri National High School of Excellence.

Reflecting on the contest, Mr. Kutomi said:
"Having the opportunity to see the students deliver such energetic speeches soon after my arrival was a wonderful experience. I was particularly impressed by their strong interest in Japanese language and culture."

He also praised the students for challenging themselves to communicate their ideas using difficult vocabulary and expressions.

Looking Ahead

As he prepares to start his activities, Mr. Kutomi hopes to create lessons that help students experience not only learning Japanese, but also the enjoyment of using it.

The Japanese Speech Contest provided participants with an opportunity to showcase their achievements, meet fellow learners, and strengthen their motivation to continue studying Japanese.

Participants and supporters of the Japanese Speech Contest.

JICA Papua New Guinea Office will continue supporting Japanese-language education and people-to-people exchanges, helping to strengthen friendship and mutual understanding between Papua New Guinea and Japan.

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