Zambia: Nine Zambian youths are among the 228 participants in the ongoing International Youth Exchange Programme in Japan dubbed “The Ship for World Youth Programme 2024.
The programme is scheduled to take place between January 24 to February 21, 2024.
State Minister of the Cabinet of Japan, Kudo Shozo, has highlighted the importance of nurturing global leaders and encouraged the youths to develop a safe and peaceful world.
“Through this programme, I hope that you will understand and respect each others’ diversity and develop life long standing relationships and cultivate leadership skills for the future, including contributions to both local and global communities,” said Shozo.
In a statement issued to ZANIS in Lusaka by First Secretary Press and Public Relations at the Zambian Embassy of Japan, Faith Chilube, Shozo noted that the youths will be aboard the passenger ship “Nippon Maru” from January 28 to February 21, 2024.
Shozo stated that the international Youth Exchange programme is organised by Zambia’s cabinet office and the government of Japan and aims to empower and foster future leaders.
He added that the programme also promotes mutual understanding, friendship and international cooperation among youths who represent the core force of the next generation.
Shozo said during the programme, Japanese and foreign youths will participate in diverse activities, including exchange programmes involving research and discussions on global topics as well as the introduction of culture from their respective countries.
“The voyage will include ports of call for Kyoto, Hyogo and Kochi prefectures and I am sure that you will be able to experience the charms and challenges of each region.”
Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Tobias Mulimbika, has commended the Japanese government for the long-standing relationship, especially since this year marks 60 years of bilateral relations between Zambia and Japan.
Dr Mulimbika expressed gratitude for Zambia’s participation in the programme for the first time and encouraged the Zambian youths to take advantage of the platform to share Zambia’s unique cultural heritage.
The Ship for World Youth Programme has been running for more than 30 years, nurturing global leaders. This is the first time in four years that the programme has been held in person after the COVID-19 pandemic.