Sakai-Wellington Educational Exchange
The Sakai Wellington Educational Exchange began in May 1994 when Sakai welcomed a group of students from Wellington with the goal of advancing international understanding and education, following the commencement of Sakai and Wellington’s sister city agreement. The next year, in July 1995, a group was sent from Sakai to Wellington, realising the beginning of bi-directional visits.Since then, the two cities alternate each year between sending and receiving a group of students in summer, with over 200 students having taken part in the programme to date. The students’ interactions with schools, host-families, and local regions, have provided opportunities for many citizens of both cities to experience international exchange on a personal level.Since 1996, the Sakai Wellington Association organises a field trip to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan for the students that visit from Wellington, and deepens exchange with Wellington by supporting the programme. It’s only a one-day tour, but people who take part tell us they really love it. Being able to participate in youth exchange is a wonderful opportunity, so please do get involved!
The 17th Sakai-Wellington Educational Exchange
Group photograph taken in front of Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
