J-cert Japanese-Language Teacher Training in Nepal Successfully Completed

 

From March 25 to April 2, I visited Nepal to serve as an instructor for a training program for Japanese language teachers held as part of J-cert's promotional activities in five cities. The training was conducted with the cooperation of four local study abroad consultancies in Nepal, including Hardford Education Pvt. Ltd. and with the support of ECAN, HONS, and other national consultancy associations in Nepal.

 

Of particular note was the training in Nepal's three largest cities, Chitwan, Pokhara, and Katmandu, which was attended by more than 100 participants and filled with enthusiasm. Training programs were subsequently held in Birtamode and Itahari, demonstrating the high level of interest in Japanese language education.

 

In order for prospective students to study in Japan, they need to pass the JLPT N5 equivalent or prove that they have studied for at least 150 hours. However, there are actually other exams besides the JLPT that international students can take, and one of the most notable is the J-cert. It is possible to take the J-cert at least six times a year, and a pass/fail decision is made within a week, which is a great advantage for international students.

 

The appeal of the J-cert does not stop there. While the question format and level are similar to those of the JLPT, the content of the questions is based on Japanese culture and society, allowing students to acquire the practical knowledge they will need during their stay in Japan.

 

This poses certain difficulties for teachers who have no experience studying abroad. However, during this training program, teaching materials and kanji learning methods that focus on such cultural aspects were introduced, and participants were able to gain new perspectives.

 

In Nepal, there is a shortage of teachers who can take charge of Japanese language education. In many cases, they have studied abroad and have little experience in education. However, it is hoped that through teacher training and better cross-cultural understanding, higher quality Japanese language education can be provided.

 

Through this training program, light is being shed on the future of Japanese language education. Local consulting firms and participants alike recognize the importance of future training programs and are eager to achieve further growth.