GIIS Tokyo recently had the privilege of sending four students to participate in a significant OECD-sponsored workshop held in Noto, Ishikawa Prefecture. This event, focused on the aftermath of the major earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula on January 1, 2024, provided an opportunity for the students to engage in activities aimed at supporting the affected communities and enhancing their understanding of disaster response and recovery.
 

The workshop, part of the OECD Noto School Project, took place from August 18 to August 21, 2024, at the National Noto Youth Exchange Center in Hakui City. This initiative, hosted by Tokyo Gakugei University in collaboration with the OECD, brought together 70 participants, including students from the impacted Wajima High School, young people from the Tohoku region who had experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, and four of our own students: Tara Morita Agrawal (Grade 10), Sota Mori (IBDP Year 1), Yuki Yamauchi (IBDP Year 1), and Mitsutoshi Imamura (Grade 10).
 

The primary aim of the workshop was to foster a supportive environment for students and teachers from the earthquake-affected region of Noto. Through various activities, the participants worked on creating a vision for the future, drawing on the experiences of those who had lived through previous disasters. The workshop focused on the well-being of the students and teachers, encouraging the exchange of ideas and offering mental support to those impacted by the disaster.
 

One of the key activities was the Osampo Workshop, where all 70 participants visited the disaster-struck Wajima region. This workshop, supported by Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), allowed students to explore the social aspects and consequences of the earthquake while moving around the affected areas. This hands-on experience deepened their understanding of the challenges faced by the local community and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
 

Another innovative activity involved students creating an avatar that represents themselves as a sea creature. This exercise helped the students analyse their own identities, encouraging self-reflection and personal growth. The avatars were then collectively displayed on the walls, symbolising the unity and diversity of the participants.
 

The participation of our students in this workshop was not just an academic exercise; it was a profound learning experience that broadened their perspectives on disaster management and community support. Through direct interaction with those affected by the earthquake and by engaging in activities that promoted mental well-being, our students gained valuable insights into the importance of empathy, resilience, and the power of collective action.

The knowledge and experiences gained during this workshop will undoubtedly equip our students to contribute meaningfully to future global discussions on disaster management and community resilience.  
 

GIIS Tokyo is proud to encourage and support our students in participating in such meaningful activities. By involving our students in real-world issues and community-based projects, we aim to foster a sense of global responsibility and empathy, preparing them to be proactive and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
 

The OECD Noto School Project was a powerful reminder of the strength of communities and the importance of supporting one another in times of need. Our students returned with a deeper understanding of the impact of natural disasters and a renewed commitment to making a positive difference in the world. As they continue their educational journey, these experiences will serve as a foundation for their growth as compassionate and responsible global citizens.
 

We are proud of Tara, Sota, Yuki, and Mitsutoshi for representing GIIS Tokyo with such dedication and for their contributions to this important initiative. Their involvement in the workshop has not only enriched their own learning but has also reinforced the values of empathy, community support, and resilience that we strive to instil in all our students.


GIIS Tokyo Communications