Aiming primarily to promote grass-roots internationalisation at the local level, the JET Programme invites young college graduates from around the world to participate in international exchange work and be involved in foreign language education at Japan’s local government offices, Boards of Education, elementary schools, junior high schools, and senior high schools.
The JET Programme has gained high acclaim both domestically and internationally for being one of the world’s largest international exchange programmes. We hope that all people involved in the JET Programme, both the participants and the local people they live and work with, will build an international network and become successful in today’s global society.
The JET Programme has grown significantly over its 30 year history, with the number of countries participating in the JET Programme growing from four to forty, and the number of participants from 848 to 4,952. Since its creation, over 62,000 people from 65 countries have participated in the JET Programme.
Currently, approximately 1,000 local public organisations (contracting organisations), including 45 prefectures and 20 designated cities, are appointing JET Programme participants. The placement and specific work activities of JET Programme participants are independently decided by each prefectural governor or city/town mayor. Although the parties involved in the JET Programme are primarily local government authorities, JET Programme participants may also be placed in private schools when there is a request.
Through the international exchange activities of its participants, the JET Programme strives to make a continued contribution to the revitalisation of local communities throughout Japan.
