Embassy of Japan Hosts Special Reception for 2025 JET Programme Cohort; Sends Largest-Ever Group from India to Japan

The Embassy of Japan in India held a special reception on 25 July 2025 to mark the departure of the selected Indian participants for the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme. This year’s cohort includes 11 Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) and 3 Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs)—the largest group ever selected from India.

Ambassador ONO with the 2025 cohort of Indian ALTs and CIRs before departing for Japan at Japanese Embassy, New Delhi.

Strengthening Grassroots Diplomacy through JET

Launched in 1987, the JET Programme is one of Japan’s most prominent international exchange initiatives, designed to foster mutual understanding between Japan and other countries at the grassroots level. Participants are placed in schools and government offices across Japan, where they support English language instruction, promote cultural exchange, and contribute to local community engagement.

Ambassador Keiichi Ono Highlights Bilateral Significance

Addressing the gathering, the Keiichi ONO, Ambassador of Japan to India congratulated the participants and underscored the significance of their role in advancing bilateral relations Ambassador Ono highlighted the importance of India’s growing participation, calling it a reflection of the evolving strategic partnership between the two nations “This year, we are proud to send the largest-ever group from India—11 Assistant Language Teachers and 3 Coordinators for International Relations—marking a significant milestone in the deepening of our bilateral ties.”

Ambassador Ono further noted the lasting impact of the JET Programme over the decades “Since its inception in 1987, the JET Programme has played an essential role in building grassroots-level friendships and cultural understanding between Japan and the world. With over 79,000 participants from 80 countries, JET continues to be a bridge between communities, cultures, and generations.”

Ambassador of Japan to India interacting with JET Programme participants in New Delhi

Participants were encouraged to approach their assignments with enthusiasm, openness, and cultural curiosity. Ambassador Ono added “As JET participants, you carry a shared responsibility—to teach, to listen, and to inspire. I encourage you to immerse yourselves fully in the communities you will be a part of, to form friendships, and to be curious ambassadors of India.”

The reception served both as a celebratory farewell and a moment of reflection on the significance of people-to-people ties in international relations. As the 2025 cohort prepares to begin their journey, their contribution is expected to further strengthen the foundation of trust and mutual respect between India and Japan.

“Let this experience not only enrich your own lives but also strengthen the bonds between our nations,” the Ambassador concluded, wishing the participants a meaningful and fulfilling experience in Japan.

Ambassador ONO interacting with JET Programme participants at the reception hosted at his residence.