JITCO

JITCO Convention: Promotion of Human Resources Development, Exchanges and Friendship

The JITCO Convention subtitled "Promotion of Human Resources Development, Exchanges and Friendship" was held at the Federation of Economic Organizations Hall on Tuesday, October 2. The number of attendees exceeded that of last year's at approximately 380 people.

Regarding activities within the Industrial Training and Technical Internship Programs, JITCO officials reported on the progress of discussions concerning the changes in the new training systems, the statistics of accepting trainees and interns, and current situations and challenges in JITCO-led projects. JITCO asked for cooperation in improving trainee-accepting conditions, taking preventive measures against fatal accidents, and raising Health and Safety standards so that the training program can be operated safely and soundly.

Following the updates, entertainer Risa Stegmayer presented a speech titled "True Global Citizens"

Having an American father and a Japanese mother, Ms Stegmayer recalled feeling and acting Japanese while in Japan, yet feeling and acting American while in the United States. Ms. Stegmayer stated that it was important not to judge which nationality was right or wrong for her, but to understand the culture and customs of both countries instead. She mentioned that in order to become true global citizens, people must learn about their own country well enough to be able to explain it to others with confidence. Ms. Stegmayer said that she had been striving to become a true global citizen herself.

After intermission, the award ceremonies for both Outstanding Accepting Organizations and the 15th Annual Japanese Essay Contest winners were held.

Five organizations and two companies won this year's awards which commend successful organizations and companies for smooth and continuous operation of the training program that follow the original intentions and purposes. JITCO hopes to encourage these organizations and companies to continue their efforts, and to show other organizations and companies the path to success.

☆The Winners of Outstanding Accepting Organizations Awards (In order of the Japanese alphabet)

At the award ceremony, Mr. Kimio Nakano, the Chairman of the Kihoku Town Society of Commercial Industry, and Mr. Norio Kawaguchi, the President of the Kagawa-Ken House-hin Kogyo Cooperative Association Manufacturers Cooperative, spoke on behalf of the winning organizations' and companies' efforts with accepting trainees. The 15^th Annual Japanese Essay Contest Award Ceremony then commenced. Please follow the link for more information.