October 29, 2024
The second cohort of participants in the JUNTOS!! Japan-Latin America and the Caribbean Inbound Programme began their engagements in Japan on Friday 25 October on the island of Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture of the country.
Under the JUNTOS!! Programme, professionals are invited to Japan to learn about its environment, economy, culture, foreign policy and history as part of the friendship ties between this country and the Caribbean Community. The programme also has an outbound component that sees Japanese students being sent to countries in the Region for a similar exchange experience.
CARICOM countries represented in this cohort include Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Haiti, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
“So far, the experience has been beyond inspiring. During our very first session, we discussed crucial topics like coral reef conservation, global warming, and marine biodiversity. I had a bit of a culture shock at the fish market, where nothing goes to waste, and fresh seafood is prepared right on the spot. That was quite interesting. Through these hands-on experiences, I’ve witnessed Japan’s commitment to sustainability and learned how small changes can make a big difference. Seeing their recycling initiatives and dedication to conservation firsthand has really opened my eyes to ways we can protect our own islands back home. It’s really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m happy I was able to be part of this cohort,” indicated Tashieka Castello of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Implemented by AFS Japan, with funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, JUNTOS!! is supported by the CARICOM Secretariat, and Ministries of Foreign Affairs in CARICOM.
The 2024 programme has extra significance as it is being undertaken in the year designated CARICOM-Japan Friendship Year to mark the 30th anniversary of the first Japan-CARICOM Consultation, and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, respectively.