#Japan #Hayabusa Scout #Kiku Scout #Scouting Japan #Ohta City

Scouts Honor: A Visit to Ohta City Hall

On April 4, 2024, a group of 20 talented scouts made their way to the Ohta City Hall, accompanied by notable figures such as the Mayor of Ohta, the Vice Mayor, the Director of Education, and the Youth Affairs Chief. The occasion was to celebrate their remarkable achievements in being awarded the Hayabusa and Kiku Scout badges.

The event took place from 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM, bringing together these young scouts for a heartfelt discussion with the Mayor. Each scout had the opportunity to share what they learned throughout their journey towards earning the badges, showcasing their personal growth and the value they have gained from their experiences. This gathering was not just a recognition of their hard work; it was a moment of pride and accomplishment for the community.

During the ceremony, the scouts also presented a commemorative gift to the Mayor, symbolizing their respect and gratitude for the support they have received. The essence of scouting is captured in such interactions, emphasizing leadership, community service, and personal development.

Understanding the Hayabusa Scout Badge

The Hayabusa Scout badge is one of the prestigious advancement badges recognized by the Boy Scouts of Japan. Targeted towards Venture Scouts, which include high school students, this badge signifies a culmination of various educational programs designed to promote the growth and development of youth.

Scouting involves multiple levels of progression, starting from the 'beginner' stage moving up through ranks: 2nd class, 1st class, Kiku, Hayabusa, and culminating at the apex badge, the Fuji Scout badge. Aspirants aiming for the Fuji Scout badge must embrace substantial challenges in six key areas: Basic skills, scouting abilities, scouting spirit, service, faith encouragement, and growth contribution. A distinctive requirement for the Fuji Scouts involves undertaking a solo camp lasting two nights and three days.

Moreover, leadership is a vital component in achieving the Fuji Scout badge. Scouts must be capable of planning, executing, and reporting on projects, cultivating the qualities of a socially responsible leader who can contribute meaningfully to society. The program caters to age groups ranging from first graders to individuals aged 25, creating a comprehensive environment for development.

A Brief History of Boy Scouts

The Boy Scouts movement, which began in England in 1907, has expanded significantly, now encompassing approximately 57 million participants across 176 countries and regions worldwide. This global initiative primarily focuses on outdoor activities, fostering qualities like self-reliance, cooperation, social responsibility, resilience, and leadership through group activities.

In Japan, there are about 1,700 groups, known as 'dantai', engaging nearly 80,000 individuals, including both children and adults. This vast network exemplifies the impact and reach of the scouting philosophy in nurturing future leaders and responsible citizens.

The collaboration and camaraderie forged within scouting resonate deeply as they prepare young individuals for the complexities of life ahead, embodying the timeless values of teamwork, discipline, and community service. The recent visit to Ohta City Hall serves as an inspiring reminder of the significant milestones that scouts achieve on their journey, inspiring the next generation.

For further inquiries, please contact:
Shintaro Yamamoto, Boy Scouts Tokyo Federation.