Transcend-Learning Expands Internship Program for International Students Across Japan

Transcend-Learning Expands Internship Program for International Students

General incorporated association Transcend-Learning is significantly expanding its unique internship program aimed at fostering the career development of international students. This program is aligned with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's certification system for the "International Student Employment Promotion Education Program" and has gained successful experience through partnerships with more than 10 leading Japanese universities over the past five years. The initiative aims to support many other universities to empower international students in Japan through collaborative and practical educational experiences.

A Comprehensive and Practical Approach to Career Development

This program focuses on integrating elements of language education, career education, and internships to equip international students with essential skills that are valued in the Japanese workplace. Students engage in project-based work addressing real business challenges faced by corporations such as developing disaster management strategies for foreigners, creating new services for inbound tourism, and formulating brand promotion strategies in Kyoto. Such collaborative efforts allow participants to develop strong problem-solving abilities while working effectively as a team.

Flexible Formats and Multilingual Support

Recognizing the diverse needs of universities and their international students, the program can be conducted in various formats, including in-person, online, or hybrid sessions. It caters to both Japanese and English speakers, removing language barriers and fostering an inclusive environment for students from numerous backgrounds.

Minimizing University Burden with Comprehensive Support

Transcend-Learning takes full responsibility for the management and execution of the entire program. This includes recruiting and collaborating with participating companies, overseeing the program’s operation, and assisting students with their final presentations. Universities are simply asked to support the announcement and recruitment of students, ensuring they offer high-quality internships without straining their resources. Additionally, during the program, students who wish to engage in individual counseling with certified career consultants will receive tailored support for their career development.

Harnessing Diversity to Foster Collaboration

The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students from different universities to participate together. Additionally, focusing on diversity—a key aspect for many Japanese companies today—programs are designed to include multinational teams comprising both Japanese and international students. This exposure enables students to naturally sharpen their intercultural understanding and broaden their perspectives.

During the 2025 program, over 100 students, including both Japanese and international participants, engaged in a 3-month internship across more than 20 teams, receiving exceptionally high ratings from peers, with an extraordinary recommendation rate of over 95%. The program is diligently designed to accommodate both Japanese-speaking and English-speaking participants for an enriched learning experience.

Sample Program Schedule

1. Day 1: Guidance & Preliminary Learning
2. Day 2: Team Building & Marketing Basics Course
3. Day 3: Company Introduction & Problem Theme Presentation
4. Day 4: Project Planning & Business Appointment Seminar
5. Day 5: Customer Interviews & Project Creation
6. Day 6: Project Development & Direction Setting
7. Day 7: Mid-Presentation & Feedback from Advisors
8. Day 8: Fieldwork & Project Development
9. Day 9: Meetings & Panel Discussions
10. Day 10: Final Product Creation
11. Day 11: Final Presentation & Feedback
12. Day 12: Career Planning Workshop using AI

Throughout the program, students will have opportunities to consult with career professionals, enriching their learning experience.

Introduction of the DJ (Diversity Jamming) AWARD

To recognize outstanding performance, the program will also host the DJ (Diversity Jamming) AWARD during the final presentations. This initiative rewards teams and individuals who deliver exceptional proposals, further enhancing their employability prospects. Awarded students receive recognition from business leaders serving as judges, potentially opening up unique recruitment avenues. For the 2025 year, over 50 awards are anticipated to be distributed.

Benefits for Universities and Students Alike

Recognition through awards not only helps students substantiate their skills in the job market but also serves to validate the quality of education provided by participating universities, prominently lifting their reputations in wider contexts. Award achievements will be measurable indicators of educational effectiveness in reports.

About Transcend-Learning

Transcend-Learning is dedicated to bridging cultures through education, aiming to maximize the potential of international students studying in Japan. By connecting students, universities, companies, and local communities, Transcend-Learning plays a vital role in fostering global talent. The organization has successfully raised graduate employment rates from an average of 40% to 60% in partner universities, actively aiding over 100 students yearly in their career development while also contributing to the expansion of participating companies.