Embassy of Japan in the United States of America
在米国日本国大使館

Pre-Departure Reception for the 24th JET Program Participants

July 30, 2010

Ladies and gentlemen,
You probably think Washington is warm and humid.
You may be right.
When you go to Tokyo, you may find that it is even hotter and more humid.
But that is not all of Japan.
You will be going to different areas throughout Japan.
Do not be discouraged by your first days in Japan.

Now, ladies and gentlemen ,
There have been lots of reports about the fate of the JET Program.
JET has achieved great things.
One, it has made junior high and high school students more aware of the world and improve their English.
Two, it has made many young friends in this country.
However, now, because our budget situation is so severe, there are voices calling for a review of the program.
A program such as this, which cannot bear fruit immediately and cannot measure its effectiveness in a quantifiable way, may be looked down upon.
But this program is great and it has achieved a lot.
In order for the program to survive and prosper, it depends on you.
Please show to the people that this program is valid by putting your zeal and energy into teaching the language.
Please make friends.
Also, please write about this program or get interviews to tell about its significance.
The fate of JET is on your shoulders.
I fervently hope you will be successful.