Call for Participants: Practical Training Programs

We are now accepting applications for two new practical training programs to be launched in the 2026 academic year.

International Collaborative Volunteer Program

This program is conducted in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and involves volunteer activities at the Japan Corner of Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, located in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, which is one of Sophia University’s partner universities. Participants will serve as volunteers under JICA’s volunteer program (Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers).

The Japan Corner organizes Japanese language classes and events introducing Japanese culture, with support from the Japanese government and Japanese companies. Students from Sophia University will work together with local faculty and staff, as well as Japanese language instructors from Toda Corporation (Toda International Foundation), to support Japanese language education and assist in planning and managing events promoting Japanese culture on a volunteer basis.

SADO Project

Sado Island is the sixth-largest island in Japan and the largest in the Sea of Japan. Known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, fresh local cuisine, and historical significance, it offers an ideal setting for experiential learning.

In this program, students from Africa and Sophia University collaborate to learn about innovative approaches to the sustainable use of natural resources on islands. Through this experience, participants will explore pathways toward sustainability in both Japanese and African contexts and gain integrated insights into environmental conservation.

Applications for both programs are currently open. For further details and application guidelines, please refer to the student portal site, My Sophia.

We look forward to receiving many applications!