[Selected by the Japan Tourism Agency] From Kagawa to the World. Otemae Takamatsu High School and Tokotoko Earth Jointly Develop an Overseas Educational Program to Foster Next-Generation Leaders

Tokotoko Earth Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, CEO: Ai Toda), which creates journeys centered on the principle of "meeting people and learning through travel," has jointly developed an overseas educational program with teachers from Otemae Takamatsu High School (Location: Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture).

This program was selected for the Japan Tourism Agency's "Support Project for Adding Value to Overseas Educational Travel Programs." Development was advanced with advice from experts, with cooperation from local organizations and the Japan Tourism Agency, including Mr. Kazuhiko Serizawa, a specialist in inquiry-based education and a high school English teacher. As a result, student recruitment and the training program were implemented in the following fiscal year.

Students visited NPOs and factories in Cambodia that promote job creation and a sustainable circular economy. Through observations, experiences, and dialogue with local people, they deeply explored social issues and a sustainable society. After returning to Japan, they held a learning conference to share what they learned during the training.

Through this experience, they cultivated a sense of ownership, which is essential for entrepreneurship.

From a Regional College Preparatory School to Producing Leaders Active on the World Stage

In recent years, Japan's education sector has increasingly required not just the acquisition of knowledge, but also the ability to proactively address social issues and create new value.

Otemae Takamatsu High School was planning a new educational course to cultivate leaders with the entrepreneurship to build a sustainable region and society. This program was selected for the Japan Tourism Agency's project as part of an educational initiative that expands its perspective globally, going beyond mere exam preparation and collaboration with local companies.

After being selected, teachers visited Cambodia to observe the activities of people involved in education and community building. The dialogue and experiences on-site had a significant impact on the teachers' own values, strengthening their desire for students to also experience the world firsthand. Based on these experiences, a village homestay and a visit to the IKTT factory were added, leading to the implementation of this overseas training program.