The EIL Explore Japan Global Leadership Award is a four-week cultural exchange scholarship in Japan. Live with a local host family, experience Japanese school life and share Irish culture while learning from the people you meet.
Experience everyday life in Japan
Your host-family stay gives you an opportunity to discover everyday routines, traditions and family life. School visits and Japanese language classes help you engage with local young people and understand a different educational setting.
Share your culture and develop confidence
As a cultural ambassador, you will introduce aspects of Irish life to schools and communities in Japan. Preparing to share your culture, listening to others and adapting to unfamiliar situations can help you develop communication skills and confidence.
Who this scholarship is for
This award suits young people with a genuine interest in Japan and a willingness to take part in cultural exchange. Tell us what you would like to learn, how you would share Irish culture and how you could bring the experience back to your community.
The Japan Global Leadership Award focuses on cultural exchange and representing Irish culture. A Japanese-language programme may also appear under the separate Summer International Language Award.
Who can apply
Applicants must be aged 16–17 on 1 June in the year of travel.
Destination and placement
Japan.
Duration
Four weeks.
Travel dates
Usually from late June in the year of travel. Final departure and return dates will be confirmed.
Accommodation
Full board with a Japanese host family.
What the scholarship covers
- Return flights from Ireland to Japan
- Full board and host-family accommodation
- Japanese high-school experience
- Visits to local schools and communities to introduce Ireland
- Japanese language classes
Check the current award information for any exclusions and personal expenses before accepting your place.
Preparation and support
24-hour in-country support is provided by EIL Japan. Read the current preparation requirements before accepting your place.
Bring your learning home
On your return, you are required to complete an Action at Home Project, reflecting on your experience and sharing what you have learned with your community. Your project can draw on your interests and the people, ideas or activities that shaped your experience.
Find out more about the Action at Home Project
Take the next step
Read the programme requirements and current application information. Tell us why this scholarship interests you, what you hope to learn and how you would share your experience afterwards.
