The Embassy of Japan in Pretoria, under the leadership of Ambassador Fumio Shimizu, hosted a farewell reception on 24 July to honour 34 South African participants departing for Japan as part of the prestigious Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme.
The event marked not only the departure of a new cohort of English language educators but also celebrated a remarkable milestone: the total number of South African participants in the JET Programme has now reached 1,023 since the country’s participation began in 1997.
Strengthening South Africa-Japan Relations Through Education
The JET Programme remains one of Japan’s flagship international exchange initiatives, fostering educational cooperation, cultural understanding, and lasting people-to-people ties between Japan and partner countries. South Africa has been an active participant in the programme for nearly three decades, with hundreds of young professionals contributing to English language education while immersing themselves in Japanese culture and society.
The 34 participants departing this year will serve as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) in schools across Japan, where they will work alongside Japanese educators to improve English language learning while acting as cultural ambassadors for South Africa.
Their participation reflects the continued commitment of both governments to strengthening bilateral relations through educational exchange, intercultural dialogue, and youth development.
Celebrating a Historic Milestone
During the reception, the Embassy commemorated the achievement of 1,023 South African JET Programme participants since 1997—a testament to the programme’s enduring success and its impact on both nations.
Many former JET participants have gone on to build successful careers in diplomacy, education, international business, public service, tourism, and cultural exchange, carrying forward the knowledge and experiences gained during their time in Japan.
This milestone underscores the programme’s significant contribution to developing globally minded leaders while deepening the friendship between South Africa and Japan.
The JET Programme’s Global Impact
Established by the Government of Japan, the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is internationally recognised as one of the world’s largest exchange programmes. It provides participants with the opportunity to live and work in Japan, primarily as Assistant Language Teachers, Coordinators for International Relations, or Sports Exchange Advisors.
Beyond classroom teaching, participants play a vital role in promoting international understanding, encouraging cultural exchange, and building long-term networks that strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people relations.
For South African participants, the programme offers invaluable professional development, cross-cultural experience, and the opportunity to represent the country’s rich heritage while contributing to education abroad.
A Future Built on Cultural Exchange
The Embassy of Japan’s farewell reception reflected the strong partnership between South Africa and Japan, highlighting how educational diplomacy continues to serve as a cornerstone of bilateral relations.
As the 34 participants begin their journey to Japan, they join a growing community of more than 1,000 South Africans whose experiences through the JET Programme continue to foster mutual understanding, strengthen international cooperation, and create lasting connections between the people of South Africa and Japan.
