Cultural Exchange Program with Japan

A group of twelve students from Issyk Kul Secondary School recently returned from a transformative two-week cultural exchange program in Japan, where they experienced Japanese education, family life, and cultural traditions firsthand.

The exchange, part of our ongoing partnership with Sakura High School in Kyoto, allowed our students to attend classes alongside their Japanese peers, stay with host families, and participate in various cultural activities including traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, and visits to historical sites.

"This experience has completely changed my perspective," said Aizhan Nurmatova, a 10th-grade participant. "Living with a Japanese family and attending a Japanese school showed me how education and daily life can be both similar and different across cultures."

Students particularly enjoyed exploring local cuisine, with many trying their hand at making traditional Japanese dishes like takoyaki (octopus balls) and onigiri (rice balls) under the guidance of their host families.

Beyond the cultural immersion, the program included educational components focused on environmental sustainability, technology, and global citizenship – themes that students from both countries explored together through collaborative projects.

"These international experiences are invaluable for developing global awareness and cross-cultural communication skills," said Mr. Marat Sultanbekov, Vice Principal for Student Affairs. "The friendships formed during these exchanges often last a lifetime and help build bridges between our countries."

As part of the reciprocal arrangement, we look forward to welcoming students from Sakura High School to Kyrgyzstan in September, where they will experience our culture, educational system, and the natural beauty of the Issyk Kul region.