Cultural programme a success

07 December 2017, 12:00AM

An exchange programme conducted last month between Samoa and Japan has been hailed a success. 

The aim of the communication class was to give kids an opportunity to experience a different culture, create a friendship bond between the participants and help Samoan children know and understand more about Japan.

Year 6 students of Afega Primary School and Year 5 students of Alise Primary School in Kobe City, Japan had the opportunity to share their knowledge for a deeper understanding of both cultures through Skype. 

The programme was coordinated by the Afega Primary Teachers, J.I.C.A. volunteer Hiroaki Negishi and Lesuea Sa’u.

They introduced traditional songs and dances between Samoan kids and Japanese kids, followed by questions and answers centered on both cultures.

It was truly a learning process for the children because they enjoyed every minute of the programme.  

 “It was good to watch the Japanese dance. I want to do the lesson again. I was surprised to see so many kids in Japan,” a Samoa student said.

Mr. Negishi said he looked forward to more programmes as such in the future. 

 “I would like to do communication classes regularly while I’m working at Afega Primary,” he said.

 “I’m thinking to let them talk more with each other from next class. I hope they will be friends with Japanese kids and become interested in Japan through these classes.”

There are only six years in Japanese primary schools, so kids in Year 5 in Japanese schools are the same age as kids in Year 6 in Samoa. 

And for Alise Primary School, there are about 150 students in Year 5.

07 December 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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