Kadena High School Students engage in exchange with Okinawa students

Eighteen Kadena High School AP Japanese students participated in a virtual exchange program coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan – Okinawa Office on Oct. 9, 2025.

The event offered a unique opportunity for Kadena students to practice Japanese language skills with Kyuyo High School students and university students who recently participated in the MOFA’s “Think of Okinawa’s Future in the United States (TOFU) program.

During the hour-long virtual exchange, students entered breakout rooms to engage in discussions about personal areas of interest, including their favorite activities and music.

On Wednesday, Oct. 22, Kadena High School students visited Kyuyo High School in person. During this visit, students deepened their understanding of cultural differences while continuing the dialogue established virtually.

“We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s Okinawa Office to make this possible,” said Mr. Makoto Kinjo, DoDEA Pacific Japanese Cultural Language Program Director. “These events are mutually beneficial to our DoDEA and local students.”