Kakehashi Project: Call for 2022-23 applicants
THE 2022-23 Kakehashi Project is an opportunity for a group of University of Toronto senior undergraduate and graduate students (including two group leaders nominated by the Centre for the Study of Global Japan) to travel to Japan for the nine-day program. Selected students will demonstrate an interest in Japanese politics, diplomacy, technology, and/or culture.
Generously supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA), the Kakehashi Project is an exchange program promoting understanding of Japan in North America. The Japanese word “kakehashi” means “bridge,” symbolizing the hope that participants will form lasting relationships with Japan and its people and serve as bridges between nations and cultures.
The 2022-23 Kakehashi Project will take place during the February 2023 Reading Week.
Kakehashi Project participants have the unique opportunity to:
(i) Attend lectures on aspects of Japanese culture, history, society, economy, politics, and diplomatic relations to promote a better understanding of Japan
(ii) Participate in school exchange programs.
(iii) Visit educational sites and institutions, high-tech and traditional industries, world heritage sites, provincial and municipal government offices, and participate in cross-cultural events, workshops, and discussions with local people.
(iv) Participate in hands-on-learning experiences such as homestays, home-visits, and cultural events.
(v) Share information through reporting sessions and social media during/after the program.
The Program covers round trip economy class international air ticket to/from Japan, overseas travel insurance, accommodation, transportation, and meals during the program in Japan, and admission fees for scheduled activities in Japan. Personal expenses, such as passport fees, vaccinations, COVID testing, local travel to Pearson Airport, excess baggage fees, and purchase of souvenirs are the responsibility of the individual participant.
Eligibility
- Current senior undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Toronto
- Applicants must have Canadian nationality (Permanent Resident status may be considered)
- Applicants should be physically and otherwise capable of keeping up with a busy program schedule requiring extensive walking each day
- Applicants must commit to sharing and disseminating their experiences in Japan after returning to Canada
*Priority will be given to applicants who have been involved in study, research or activities related to Japan or Japanese language/culture for over a year and those who have been involved in business related to Japan or Japanese products/services for over a year.
*Applicants who have Japanese nationality are ineligible.
*Applicants who have previously participated in the Kakehashi Project or other programs funded by the Japanese government are ineligible.
*Applicants who have spent 12 months or more cumulatively in Japan are ineligible.
Please find the complete application guidelines here.
Application requirements
The 2022-23 Kakehashi Project application is a multi-step process with both components (online & print) due by 9:00 am on Monday, November 14, 2022.
STEP #1: Review the complete application guidelines from here.
STEP #2: Fill out this online form, upload the requested documents, and click “submit.” You will receive a confirmation email with a link that will allow you to access your application to print or edit it as needed. You may also save your application and resume it later by clicking “save” at the bottom of the page. A link to your saved application will be emailed to you.
STEP #3: Prepare your CV and unofficial U of T academic transcript.
STEP #4: PRINT your completed application, CV & transcript and submit it to:
Mio Otsuka
Events and Program Coordinator
Centre for the Study of Global Japan
Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy | University of Toronto
1 Devonshire Place, Toronto, ON M5S 3K7
(*Please leave in mailbox located in the South House reception at 1 Devonshire Place)
Application deadline: 9:00 am ET on Monday, November 14, 2022
*The application is a multi-step process. Please see above.
Please address all inquiries to:
Mio Otsuka
Events and Program Coordinator
Centre for the Study of Global Japan
Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy | University of Toronto
1 Devonshire Place, Toronto, ON M5S 3K7
csgj.munk@utoronto.ca
