Since its inception in 1987, the JET programme has welcomed over 50,000 participants from 36 countries to Japan. The programme has gained high acclaim for its role in encouraging grassroots internationalisation, both during the stay of participants in Japan, but also as part of a lasting legacy once they return home.
Many former JETS actively seek to maintain their links with Japan through participating in one of the 52 regional Alumni Association chapters operating in 17 countries. The Association provides a professional, cultural and social network for Alumni. It enables them to work collectively to support new and returning JETs, promote the programme to prospective applicants and to facilitate the dissemination of Japanese culture and language through organising and supporting local events.
For the past 15 years, delegates from each of the countries which have active Alumni Associations have gathered annually for an International Meeting to share ideas and experiences, collaborate on initiatives at an international level and to support the formation of new chapters and global reach of the association. The International Meeting was last held in the UK in 2001 when it was hosted by the London Chapter.
This weekend the 2010 International Meeting comes to Edinburgh. It is fitting that the event has come to the Britain this year, as 2010 marks the 20th anniversary of JETAA-UK. The meeting, kindly hosted by JETAA Scotland, will include a traditional Scottish Celidh which will include a photo exhibition celebrating 20 years of JETAA-UK. This year’s event is also significant as it will mark the end of the tradition of Country Representatives meeting in person each year.
The UK Committee of JETAA-UK would like to express our gratitude for the hard work and endeavours of those who have contributed towards making Edinburgh 2010 a reality. We wish all delegates a constructive, invigorating and successful International Meeting.
