The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) is dedicated to strengthening ties between ASEAN and Japan by engaging the younger generation and equipping them to foster these connections in the future. To support this objective, the AJC implements various initiatives by involving students and young individuals from both Japan and the ASEAN Member States through educational programs, cultural exchanges, and interactive discussion.
As part of these efforts, the AJC conducted ASEAN Class at Onarimon Gakuen Onarimon Elementary School (Minato-city, Tokyo) on 19 February 2026. This elementary school is located near the AJC office, and we have been conducting exchange activities for over a decade.
Key Takeaways
- 94% of approximately 500 students responded that they had fun, showing an increase in interest in ASEAN.
- AJC provided classes on the flora and fauna of ASEAN and on Indonesian instruments (Gamelan, Angklung and others) through hands-on experience for students in the lower grades.
- For higher grades, presentations on topics such as “Landscape, Agriculture, Food” and “Politics, Constitution, Tax, Election” were organized.
- Officers of Tokyo based government officers including diplomat from ASEAN Embassies took part as lecturers.
Comments from Students
- The sounds of the Indonesian instruments were beautiful. (1st grade)
- I understand now that there are so many other living species in the world, not just that ones that I knew. (2nd grade)
- I now know that the world’s most dangerous insect is mosquitoes. (3rd grade)
- I was impressed that even everyday objects can be used to perform music with very beautiful sounds. (4th grade)
- I want to drink coconut juice. (5th grade)
- Japan and the Philippines surprisingly have a lot in common. (6th grade)
