High school students from Asia discuss energy issues in Okinawa

High school students from Asia discuss energy issues in Okinawa

High school students from various Asian countries took part in the opening ceremony at the Bankoku Shinryokan Okinawa in Nago on August 8.


August 6, 2013 Ryukyu Shimpo

The opening ceremony for the Asian Youth Development Program hosted by the Okinawa Prefectural Government was held on August 5 at the Bankoku Shinryokan in Nago. A total of 54 high school students from 13 South East Asian countries and Japan, including Okinawa, took part in the ceremony. During the program, which is designed for the students to learn about energy issues, they attend lectures from specialists such as university professors and visit companies. Each group will report on their business plans to resolve energy issues at the Okinawa Convention Center, on 20 August, which is the last day of the program.

In her welcome speech, Kurara Chinen, a 16-year-old from Naha International High School said, “We want to think together, enjoy ourselves, and to forge strong bonds.” As a representative for the overseas participants Cathlene Rose Umali Monfero, 15-year-old fourth-generation Okinawan from the Philippines Okinawa Kenjinkai said, “I would like to expand my knowledge and experience many things. When I go back to my country, I want to pass those things on to many people. Our connections here will lead to a better environment in Asian countries.”

The Okinawa Prefectural Government is aiming to create “The Island of Interaction and Coexistence,” as part of the Okinawa 21st Century Vision to resolve environmental issues through cross-border exchange among young people.

(English translation by T&CT, Hitomi Shinzato and Mark Ealey)

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