Spark Exchange Program — Cultural Exchange Initiative

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture, help local students develop English skills, and embark on a journey of self-discovery during your short stay in Japan.

The 2025 application is now open.

Follow us on Instagram @ceinitiative

Program Structure

CEI Spark programs offer specially designed activities that allow participants to spend a short time in Japan. Participants can join either program, with ample free time to explore Japan and foster new relationships.

The 2025 Spark Summer Exchange Programs will take place in three cities: Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Kani in Japan.

Program 1
August 6-8, 2024, Fukuoka

Active Presentation Camp

In partnership with Fukuoka Girls' Commercial High School, CEI facilitators lead interactive activities focused on team building, design thinking, and presentation skills, drawing from university and professional experiences. Japanese Students gain confidence in speaking English through our 3-day camp, finishing with group presentations at the end.

Activities: ice-breaking, Team-building, Brainstorming using design thinking methodology, Presentation skills lectures, Guest speakers, Mock presentations, Final group presentation competitions

Program 2
August 9-11, 2024, Nagoya

Active Presentation Camp

In partnership with Nagoya University Affiliated High School, CEI facilitators led interactive activities focused on team building, design thinking, and presentation skills, drawing from their university and professional experiences. Additionally, Japanese students gained confidence in speaking English through a structured team project where they were presented with a problem, conducted field research, tested hypotheses, and presented solutions in English at the end of the camp

Activities: ice-breaking, team-building, brainstorming using design thinking methodology, presentation skills, research methodologies, interviews, data collection, guest speakers, mock presentations, and final group presentation competitions

Program 3
Late July - Early Aug*, 2024, Kani

Summer English Camp

CEI partnered with local teachers to lead interactive learning classes tailored for younger learners. The 2-week program emphasized English immersion through activities such as singing, dancing, and games.

*Final date will be ubject to change

Program Video

How to Apply

Mid-November: Application opens

Late January: Information session

Late May: Application deadline

Late July: Summer programs in Japan

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Apply now

Through collaboration with our local partner institutions and host cities, the CEI Spark program will cover the fees for:

Accommodations
Ground transportations
Scheduled program activities
Some international airfare & meals (the program will provide further details)
Travel insurance plan

Cost & Expenses

You will also need to budget for a number of expenses not covered by the program. The amounts listed below for these out-of-pocket expenses are approximate, and you may incur additional expenses not noted here. Your actual expenses will depend on a number of factors, including personal spending habits.