Okinawa Prefectural Government Public Relation and International Exchange Division has now started accepting applications for 2016 Uchina Junior Study program.
This is a great opportunity for any youth of Okinawan descent to experience the history and culture of Okinawa, as well as finding a little bit more about their ancestry. This is an all expense paid program from the Okinawan prefecture.
Here are some highlights of the program:
1. Aim of the Program
To educate the next generation that will take charge of the World Uchina Network. Through studying Okinawan history, culture, nature and more side-by-side, participants from both within the prefecture and abroad can deepen their understanding of, and bond with, their mother prefecture, Okinawa.
2. Requirements for Participation
1. Must be Uchina descended 2. As of April 2nd, 2016, applicant must be enrolled in middle or high school, and be from 13 to 19 years of age.
3. Language ability
So that participants can be fully engaged during their time on the program, youths with at least some Japanese ability are preferred.
4. Expenses borne by Okinawa Prefecture 1. Round trip, economy-class flight between the participant’s closest international airport and Naha Airport. 2. Lodging, food, travel insurance, and entrance fees during the program (July 31th to August 6th)
5. Documents, etc. Necessary for Application
i. Recommendation letter (form 1)
ii. Candidate’s application forms (forms 2-1, 2-2)
iii. Essay (form 3, about 800 characters) Topic: Write About “My Uchinanchu Identity” *One essay per applicant Other than forms 1 and 2, the indicated places must be filled in Japanese. Form 3 (essay) should have an attached version, translated into Japanese, provided by each kenjinkai.
Submissions Deadline: Applications must be submitted by Thursday April 28th, 2016, Japan time. No exceptions.
Link to website and forms
http://www.pref.okinawa.lg.jp/site/chijiko/kohokoryu/2016ujs.html