Japan Foundation, Manila

Japanese-Language Education

Events & Courses|

Next-Gen Nihongo Leaders Program Application

 

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN!

Next-Gen Nihongo Leaders Program – Module 2

“Developing Intercultural Communicative Competence through Dialogue – A Practical Module for Filipino Nihongo Teachers”

This unique opportunity is open to aspiring and current Japanese language educators looking to enhance their teaching practices and improve student learning outcomes. Through interactive sessions and collaborative learning, participants will join a supportive professional community—learning from expert instructors and fellow educators working toward a shared goal.

Module 2 Goal:
To cultivate a new generation of Filipino Japanese language educators equipped with intercultural communicative competence, reflective teaching practices, and leadership potential—empowering them to lead Japanese language education in a more inclusive, dialogic, and transformative way.

Highly motivated individuals with strong potential as future leaders in Nihongo education will be selected for this competitive program.

📌 Apply now: http://bit.ly/44qzfLv
🗓️ Application Deadline: July 6, 2025

Be part of the next wave of change-makers in Japanese language education!

Events & Courses|

NEXT-GEN Nihongo Leaders Program

Calling All Future Nihongo Leaders!
Are you passionate about Japanese language education and ready to explore new ways of teaching and learning? The Next-Gen Nihongo Leaders Program is a dynamic and transformative initiative designed to empower current or aspiring Nihongo teachers with the essential skills, knowledge, and intercultural competence needed to lead the next generation of Japanese language education in the Philippines.

This highly selective program offers an unparalleled opportunity to exchange ideas, develop new skills, and forge invaluable connections within the global Nihongojin community. We’re seeking individuals who demonstrate exceptional potential, unwavering commitment, and strong leadership qualities to embark on a collaborative and practical learning journey with us.

Module 2 entitled, “Developing Intercultural Communication Competence through Dialogue,” aims to shift participants’ focus from the knowledge of mere cultural facts to fostering a deeper understanding of culture based on discovery and reflection. Activities include collaborative discussions and practical exercises devised to build vital skills for navigating diverse cultural interactions with the use of technology.

📅 Application period starts: July 1, 2025
If you’re interested in joining this meaningful learning experience, we strongly encourage you to apply.
Take your first step now!
Full details and application guidelines to be released soon!

Events & Courses|

Job Vacancy Announcement: Philippine-based Japanese-Language Lecturers for JPEPA Nurse & Care Worker Candidates (Batch 18)

■ Online Information Session
Date：June. 21st　（Sat.）
Time：10:00-11:00
Place：Zoom
Please register：https://forms.office.com/r/CnmNmur50F?origin=lprLink

The Japan Foundation, Manila, is looking for Philippine-based Japanese-Language Lecturers to teach the Japanese-Language Course for JPEPA Nurse & Care Worker Candidates (Batch 18)

■ Job Title
Japanese-language Lecturers for the Japanese-Language Course for JPEPA Nurse & Care Worker Candidates

■ Employment Period (Tentative)
– From November 2025 to May 2026
– Few days in October and November 2025 for preparatory training

■ Job Summary
Lecturers will be asked to teach a special intensive seven-month course for nurse and care worker candidates preparing to work in Japan under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA). This course aims to equip learners with the Japanese language skills necessary for their workplaces, such as hospitals and caregiving facilities, and to help them adapt to a culture and society different from their own. Lecturers are expected to teach in Japanese and foster active and autonomous learning habits among students, rather than simply providing grammatical rules and drills.

■ Hours: Monday to Friday (8:00 ~ 15:50)
・Team meeting once a week
・Occasional training and events
・Working days are negotiable (3-6 classes/day)
(e.g.) <Lecturer A> 3 classes in the morning on Mondays: Total 12 classes /month
<Lecturer B> 3 classes on Monday AM, Wednesday AM, Friday PM and 6 classes on Tuesdays
: Total 60 classes /month

■ Workplace: Online

■ Payment
・Based on the standard pay scale of The Japan Foundation, Manila
*The hourly wage varies depending on the experience and qualifications.
(e.g.) PHP550 per 50 minutes class (N3 Holder with 1 year of teaching experience)

■ Qualifications
– (Non-Japanese applicants) JLPT N1, N2, or N3, or being equivalent to that proficiency in Japanese
– Basic IT Skills — Power Point, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Forms etc.

■ Other Requirements
– Having own devices (PC/laptop) with sufficient specs to conduct online classes
*Installed security software
– Stable and fast Internet with Wifi speed of at least 15 Mbps
– Positive team player attitude
– Flexibility to try different ways of teaching method responding to the learners’ actual needs and readiness

■ Other requirements for non-Filipino applicants
（１）フィリピンの永住権保持者もしくはフィリピンでの就労許可をお持ちの方。
（２）フィリピン国内に居住している方。
（３）母国語並の日本語能力を有する方が望ましい。
（４）英語での業務が可能な方。英語に加えタガログ語もできればより望ましい。
（５）日本語教授経験がある方。

■ Documents to be submitted (DEADLINE: July 31, 2025  15:00)
1 Form-1: JPEPA Lecturer Application Form, attached with passport-size photo (4.5×3.5cm)
2 Form-2: Japanese-language Teaching Experience
3 Form-3: Essay (HANDWRITTEN ONLY)
4 Non-Japanese applicants: Photocopy of the JLPT Certificate
Japanese applicants: フィリピンの永住権もしくは就労許可証写し

■ How to submit the documents
Please submit all the documents here: https://forms.gle/HQiiSnEsW2yLg8at5
Download Form-1 and Form-2. Type in your basic information and teaching experience and save them as PDF.
Download and Print Form-3. Print it out and complete the essay (HANDWRITTEN ONLY). Scan the Form and save it as PDF.
Scan / take pictures of your JLPT Certificate or フィリピンの永住権もしくは就労許可証写し and save it as PDF or JPEG.
Go to Google Form and upload all the documents;「Form-1」,「 Form-2」,「Form-3」 and 「Scanned data of your JLPT Certificate ORフィリピンの永住権もしくは就労許可証写し」.

※ Please ensure all four documents are completed and submitted by 31 July 2025, to avoid disqualification. Kindly have all the documents ready before uploading them, as partial submissions are not allowed.

■ For questions and inquiries, contact: epa.ph.2019@jfmo.org.ph

Events & Courses|

The Japan Foundation, Manila Holds its 2nd Advocacy Seminar: Building a Future of Working Together (共に働く未来を創る日本語教育)

Recognizing the rapidly evolving landscape of Japan’s workforce and the increasing number of foreign workers, particularly Filipinos, the Japan Foundation, Manila, recently hosted its second advocacy seminar on March 17, 2025. The online event, titled “Building a Future of Working Together: 共に働く未来を創る日本語教育,” addressed the critical need for practical and effective Japanese language education tailored to meet the demands of various industries and foster better understanding in increasingly diverse workplaces. 

With the impending full-scale implementation in 2027 of the Training and Employment System, which will replace the former Technical Intern Training Program, alongside the existing Specified Skilled Worker Visa Program, Japan is witnessing a significant surge in its foreign labor population. The seminar served as a timely platform for experts from diverse sectors to discuss the discrepancies between traditional classroom Japanese and the actual language used in the workplace, ultimately aiming to foster smoother communication and integration.

The insights shared during the seminar underscored the crucial role of industry participation in shaping relevant Japanese language education. Professor SHIMADA Noriko of Musashino University highlighted the ongoing discussions in Japan to potentially mandate Japanese language learning opportunities for foreign workers within accepting organizations under the new Training and Employment system. This aligns with recent developments, including the establishment of the CEFR-based Framework of Reference for Japanese Language Education (日本語教育の参照枠, Nihongo Kyōiku no Sanshōwaku), the creation of a guiding document for this framework, the enactment of the Japanese Language Education Institution Certification Act, and the launch of a national certification system for Registered Japanese Language Teachers.

Professor Shimada emphasized that language acquisition is integral to foreign workers in Japan for them to experience a better quality of life. She advocated for setting individual learning goals and moving away from the notion that native speakers should be the benchmark for assessing language proficiency, as an overemphasis on prescriptive “correctness” can sometimes hinder practical learning in the workplace.

The seminar highlighted the importance of “can-do” statements within the CEFR framework, encouraging organizations and educational institutions to develop these statements based on the specific Japanese language skills required in various workplaces, thus necessitating active involvement from industries to clearly define these needs.

The limitations of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) as the sole indicator of practical workplace communication skills were discussed. Mr. MORISHIMA Satoshi of DENSO Corporation shared his company’s proactive approach in developing their own CEFR-based goal-setting framework to better assess and cultivate the specific Japanese language abilities needed within their organization. Their field research to establish clear distinctions among different proficiency levels underscored the need for more nuanced evaluation methods. Mr. MORISHIMA emphasized the need to develop qualified assessors who can provide the accurate data, insightful feedback, and consistent standards necessary to navigate the path towards more effective teaching and improved learning outcomes.

Mr. Alexander Macainag, Advisor of The Association of Nihongo Teachers in the Visayas (ANT-V), echoed this sentiment, pointing out the existing gap between the “correct” Japanese emphasized in JLPT preparation and the practical communication skills demanded by Japanese companies. He raised a pertinent question about the level of dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders in the Philippines – government, academia, the private sector, and civil society – in addressing these crucial issues.

The Japan Foundation, Manila, through this advocacy seminar, aims to stimulate a more of this kind of dialogue among educators, industry representatives, and policymakers, to promote a more practical and purpose-driven approach to Japanese language education, and in the hope that this effort will ultimately empower Filipino workers seeking employment in Japan, equipping them with the linguistic tools necessary for effective communication, seamless integration, and greater success as part of Japan’s growing multicultural workforce.

[Watch Full Video (2 Hours 11 minutes)]: https://youtu.be/aM26GeFWCX8

Events & Courses|

Nihongojin Across the Philippines: Essay Open Call (FY2024)

The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) is now accepting submissions of written articles for the Nihongojin Across the Philippines Essay Contest.

The theme “こんなところに にほんご人: Nihongojin Across the Philippines” aims to highlight the unique experiences of Nihongo learners and teachers across the different parts of the Philippines.

Three talented winners will get the chance to publish their article in the latest edition of Nihongojin Connect! It is the JFM’s official newsletter of the Japanese Language Education section. A cash prize worth Php 1,000.00 will also be given to each winner.

[Eligibility and Restrictions] 

  • The applicant must reside in the Philippines or must be a Filipino national
  • All articles must be written in English
  • All parts of the entry (including photos) must be original, previously unpublished, and all rights owned by the applicant
  • The article must include 2-3 photos (captions are optional)
  • Accompanying photos must be optimal for printing
  • Written articles must have a maximum of 1,000 words
  • Applicants must allow JFM use of all submitted materials (owners will be credited accordingly)
  • Official certificates will not be issued

[Submission Details]

  • The submission period will be from 5 September 2024 to 18 October 2024 (Friday)
  • The article shall be submitted in the MS Word format
  • The article shall be submitted to setsuko_kanuka@jpf.go.jp
  • The subject for your email must be “NAP2024”
  • The document shall contain the following in the header portion: 1) Applicant’s name and 2) Region of Residence
  • The winners will be notified by 8 November 2024, through JFM’s official social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram) and the JFM website
  • Deadline of Submission: 18 October 2024 at 11:59PM

[Criteria for Selection]

  • Inspirational Impact: Does the essay effectively inspire and motivate other Nihongo learners to pursue or continue their language learning journey?
  • Connection: Does the essay convey a sense of connection and shared experience, making other Nihongo learners feel understood and less alone in their language learning journey?
  • Uniqueness of Insight and Perspective: Does the essay present original thoughts, unique insights, or a distinctive perspective on the Nihongo learning journey?
  • Structure and organization of ideas
  • Coherence and readability of content
  • Technical writing proficiency (punctuation, spelling, capitalization, grammar)

News|

Conduct of the 38th Philippine Nihongo Teachers’ Forum in cooperation with the University of the Philippines’ Department of Linguistics (March 13, 2024)

On March 13, 2024, the Japan Foundation, Manila, in partnership with the University of the Philippines’ Department of Linguistics, held the 38th Philippine Nihongo Teachers’ Forum at UP Diliman. It was an enriching event filled with insightful discussions and practical workshops aimed at enhancing Japanese language education in the Philippines. 

The event featured keynote speaker, Dr. Yasu-hiko Tohasaku, a distinguished professor and language program Director from the University of California, San Diego, who captivated the audience with his discourse on the significance of Assessment in foreign language learning. Attendees were introduced to several types of formative assessment and given a preview of how formative assessment can help teachers continuously improve their classes while helping students achieve better results with summative assessment. 

After lunch, participants explored poster presentations showing various unique assessment tools developed by educators from across the country.  

This was followed by a hands-on workshop that provided participants with an interactive learning experience that allowed them to collaborate and apply the knowledge gained earlier in the day. Tohsaku Sensei and members of the audience shared feedback and guidance, enriching the learning process further. 

Although it was a full-day event, the enthusiasm among participants remained high throughout. Everyone left feeling invigorated and eager to implement new strategies in their teaching practice.  

We hope this will be a starting point for teachers to focus on the development of students’ critical thinking skills to cultivate future-ready global citizens, and we look forward to related events soon. 

News|

Conduct of the Special Lecture on Nihongojin Development in the Philippines (March 12, 2024)

On Tuesday, March 12, 2024, the Japan Foundation Manila, in collaboration with Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, Inc., and support from Kamenori Foundation, held a ground-breaking Japanese Language Education Advocacy Event called “Leading the Way to the Future of Japanese Language Education: A Special Lecture by Dr. Yasu-hiko Tohsaku” at the New World Hotel in Makati. 

The half-day event, moderated by Japan Foundation Manila’s Francesca Ventura, was organized to create a venue for stakeholders from industry, government, and academia to make their voices heard and encourage better understanding and cooperation between these sectors, creating a clearer and brighter vision of Japanese language education that can guide its direction in the future. ​ 

Dr. Yasu-hiko Tohsaku, who is a professor and language program Director of the University of California, San Diego, spoke about how there needs to be a paradigm shift from test-focused Japanese language education to future-ready and world-ready education that would create global citizens equipped with the necessary 21st century skills to survive.  

The lecture was followed by a reaction from Mr. Alexander Macainag, a Language Management Specialist and Japanese Language Teacher from Ichigoichie Consulting, Inc. who stated the importance of Teachers, Learners and Companies being on the same page when it comes to setting their goals and objectives. He also stressed how important it is for each stakeholder to acknowledge and accept their respective responsibilities and how teacher training is important to create teachers who can help learners develop creativity, cultural awareness and critical thinking. 

This was followed by another reaction from Dr. Roberto Figueroa Jr. of the University of the Philippines’ Open University, who showed the audience how their institution could collaborate with Japan Foundation Manila to find more accessible ways to conduct teacher training in the near future. 

During the open forum, teachers, school administrators, government officers and hiring institutions actively participated in the discussion, sharing their issues and concerns in an open and very candid manner. 

The thoughts and opinions of the audience were summed up in a very concise and yet thought-provoking manner by Ms. Farah Cunanan from the UP Department of Linguistics, who urged the audience to ponder on the true meaning of education. 

The event closed with a luncheon that allowed representatives from various sectors to interact with one another and explore possible collaborations over a sumptuous meal.

 

Events & Courses|

38th Philippine Nihongo Teachers’ Forum

 

38th Philippine Nihongo Teachers’ Forum
13 March 2024 | Wednesday | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
UP Diliman, Quezon City

Transform your teaching today! 

Join us for a hands-on lecture-workshop that will allow you to interact with and receive advice directly from internationally acclaimed Japanese language expert, Prof. Yasu-hiko Tohsaku. 

In this forum, expect to:                   

✅ Learn from experienced educators as they share techniques and strategies for effective assessment in the classroom.
✅ Reflect on how to integrate technology to enhance your teaching and create dynamic, engaging assessment tools that resonate with your students.
✅ Unleash your creativity as we collaborate to develop innovative, practical approaches to formative assessment tailored to meet your unique classroom needs.

Save the date and watch out for further details on registration!

—

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Yasu-Hiko Tohsaku (Ph.D. in linguistics, University of California, San Diego) is Professor and Language Program Director at School of Global Policy and Strategy, University of California, San Diego. His current research interests are second language acquisition, language pedagogy, and language assessment. His publications include “Yookoso!: Invitation to Contemporary Japanese”, “Yookoso!: Continuing with Contemporary Japanese” (McGraw-Hill 2006), “Doraemon no Dokodemo Nihongo (Japanese Language Learning Anywhere by Draemon)” (coauthor 2009), and “Gakushu no Meyasu (Curriculum Guidelines of Chinese and Korean Instruction in Japanese High Schools)” (co-author, The Japan Forum 2012), “Japanese Language Instruction: 77 Tips Series” (co-general editor, Kuroshio Shuppan 2012-) and “Japanese Language Education x ICT” (supervising editor, Hitsuji Shobo 2019). In “Nippon 3.0 no Shohosen (Prescription for Japan 3.0) “(Kodansha 2013), he proposed a new approach to language teaching and in his 2021 publication, “Social Networking Approach to Japanese Language Teaching: Intersection of Language and Culture in the Digital Age”, (co-editor, Routledge), he explores this new approach. He was formerly President of Association of Teachers of Japanese and American Association of Teachers of Japanese, and a board member of Joint National Committee on Languages in the United States. He is currently the Japanese representative to the Executive Board of the National Standards (World-Readiness Standards) Collaborative Project in the United States, President of the International Association of Computer-Based Japanese Instruction, and a board member of Japanese Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (JACTFL) in Japan. He received the Society Award from the Society of Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language in Japan in 2015, the Lifelong Achievement Award from the American Association of Teachers of Japanese in 2020, and the Commissioner’s Award from the Agency for Cultural Affairs (Bunkacho) in 2022.

Events & Courses|

Oshaberi Salon: Kanji of the Year (今年の漢字)

𝗢𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗶 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻
今年の漢字
𝗞𝗮𝗻𝗷𝗶 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿

Are you looking for a chance to practice your Nihongo? Join the Oshaberi Salon!

“Oshaberi Salon” aims to create a space where Japanese Language learners can practice their conversational skills with fellow learners interested in a certain topic.

This month’s Oshaberi Salon will take place at The Japan Foundation, Manila’s office in Makati, and will be a mixed-level event.

 

𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀 

Date December 14, 2023 (Thursday)
Time 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Venue The Japan Foundation, Manila’s Office (23rd floor Pacific Star Building, Makati Ave Corner Sen. Gil Puyat Ave, Makati City, Metro Manila)
Admission FREE

 

𝗘𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀

★  Participants must at least be a high school student. 

★  Participants must have Nihongo learning experience, including any form of self-study.

𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 

★ Registration may close earlier than the deadline, depending on the number of registrants.

★ Please be informed that we will not issue any certificates for the event.

See you there!

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