Zambian Youths Embark on Japanese Cultural Exchange Aboard “Nippon Maru”
As part of the International Youth Exchange Program, nine Zambian youths have joined 228 participants from around the world on the “Ship for World Youth Program 2024” in Japan.
The program, taking place from January 24th to February 21th, 2024, aims to empower and foster future leaders, promoting mutual understanding, friendship, and international cooperation among the youth.
Faith Nabeene Chilube, First Secretary Press and Public Relations at the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in Tokyo, Japan, issued an official statement confirming the Zambian youths’ participation.
The participants will be aboard the passenger ship “Nippon Maru” from January 28th to February 21st, engaging in various activities that encourage cultural exchange and collaboration.
Organized by the Cabinet office and the government of Japan, the International Youth Exchange Program includes diverse activities such as research and discussions on global topics, cultural introductions, and observations of industrial, cultural, and educational institutions.
These initiatives are designed to deepen friendships and cultivate a spirit of goodwill among the young participants.
During the program, State Minister of the Cabinet of Japan, Mr. Kudo Shozo, emphasized the importance of nurturing global leaders and encouraged the participating youths to develop skills that contribute to both local and global communities, fostering a safe and peaceful world.
“I hope that you will understand and respect each other’s diversity and develop lifelong standing relationships and cultivate leadership skills for the future,” said Mr. Shozo.
The voyage will include visits to Kyoto, Hyogo, and Kochi prefectures, allowing the participants to experience the unique charms and challenges of each region.
Zambian Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Tobias Mulimbika, commended the Japanese government for the longstanding relationship between Zambia and Japan, especially as 2024 marks 60 years of bilateral relations.
Dr. Mulimbika expressed gratitude for Zambia’s inaugural participation in the program and encouraged the Zambian youths to leverage this opportunity to share Zambia’s unique cultural heritage.
The Ship for World Youth Program, which has been running for over 30 years, marks a significant milestone as it resumes in-person activities after a four-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
This cultural exchange promises to further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Zambia and Japan while fostering the development of global leaders.
