On September 7th, our school exchange program in Bhutan finally began.

Three students from our school and five students from Shinagawa Etoile Girls’ High School visited Pelkhil School, our partner school in Bhutan.

In the morning, we participated in the school assembly alongside local students and received a warm welcome from everyone at the school. Afterwards, we split into Classes 8, 9, and 11 together with the local students and participated in their respective classes.
By attending classes in an environment different from what we’re used to, we were able to directly experience the differences between Japanese schools and Bhutanese schools—such as how classes are conducted and the atmosphere of the school. We are also deepening our exchange by communicating with the local students in English, bit by bit.

Starting September 8th, we are also participating in the “Literary Festival Week” being held at Pelkhil School.
During this period, local students are engaged in various activities and presentations as part of the school’s events. On Thursday, students from Hakuho Girls’ High School and Shinagawa Etoile Girls’ High School will perform Japanese Bon Odori dancing for the local students.

Despite the differences in language and culture, by engaging in activities together with the local students, we are gaining invaluable experiences that cannot be obtained simply by studying English in the classroom. Students who were nervous at first have gradually become accustomed to the local school life, and we are beginning to see them taking initiative in communication.

In this study abroad program, we prioritize not merely visiting a foreign country, but actually attending a local school and spending time alongside local students.
Through this school exchange going forward, we hope that students will deepen their understanding of Bhutanese culture and education, and experience the joy of connecting with people across national and cultural boundaries.

We look forward to seeing what our students will learn and how they will grow through the many encounters and experiences that lie ahead.