Day 12 – Tuesday 26 September

A Memorable Day in Minokamo City

Greeting students this morning and doing our check-ins had the leaders hearing about another night of different activities and foods. Challenges were met and students tried their best with language barriers.

Our schedule brimmed with class visits, a kaleidoscope of subjects from sports to mathematics, where our students, side by side with their Japanese buddies, eagerly absorbed new knowledge and skills. The camaraderie was palpable, bridging language barriers effortlessly.

Today we had a speedy lunch as we needed to be on time to visit the mayor.

As we stepped into the Mayor’s office, the walls adorned with photographs of the city’s past. The Mayor of Minokamo who when first elected was the youngest mayor in Japan at 29yo; he warmly welcomed us, Minokamo highlighted the close ties between our sister schools and our students asked well thought out questions and gave speeches.

In the afternoon, after we visited the mayor we ventured out to explore the city’s public spaces. The artwork, a collaborative effort between Minokamo and Genesis students in 2017, was a testament to the power of shared creativity.

The heritage park, though quiet, whispered tales of generations that had called this place home.

As the day waned, a handful of students waited for their host brother or sister to finish a late test. The Minokamo students still took time to check in on their Genesis students before their tests to make sure they were ok.

Tomorrow, is our final full day in Minokamo High School, it promises one last burst of learning and friendship opportunities.

Soon, we’ll hit the road, carrying with us memories and bonds that time and distance cannot dim.

Oyasuminasai