(KPL) Sakura Kokusai Tokyo High School has established strong and meaningful relations with Laos, contributing significantly to building schools in the country. As part of the preparations to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Lao People's Democratic Republic and Japan in 2025, the school continues to play a vital role in fostering education and cultural exchange.

In a recent interview with the Lao News Agency, Mr. Arai Yuji, Principal of Sakura Kokusai Tokyo High School, shared insights into the school’s contributions. "Our school has over 300 students, and we have previously had Lao students study here," he noted. "Our students also actively engage in fundraising activities to support school construction projects in Laos."

Over the years, students from Sakura Kokusai Tokyo High School have helped construct eight schools in Laos, with each project costing over 40,000 USD. These funds were raised through initiatives such as the Bazaar festival, where students sold clothes and school equipment. Each time a school was completed, a group of 25 Japanese students traveled to Laos to participate in the construction and handover ceremonies, often using their own budgets for these trips.

During their visits to Laos, the Japanese students stayed in homestays, offering them a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Lao culture. These experiences allowed the students to learn about the local way of life, customs, and traditions a perspective not easily found in Japan.

The first school built through this collaboration was a primary school in Vang Vieng, handed over in 1999. Since then, the partnership has continued to flourish, strengthening ties between Lao and Japanese communities. Beyond building schools, students from both countries have collaborated on cultural activities, such as performing theater dramas, further fostering mutual understanding.

Mr. Arai also emphasized the importance of language skills for students wishing to study at Sakura Kokusai Tokyo High School. "Students need to learn Japanese before enrolling. They can contact us for guidance and support," he added.

The ongoing efforts of Sakura Kokusai Tokyo High School exemplify the spirit of friendship and cooperation that the upcoming 70th-anniversary celebration seeks to highlight. By investing in education and cultural exchange, the school continues to contribute to a lasting partnership between Laos and Japan.

KPL