#Japan #Fukuoka #EF Education #International Cafe #Taiwan Study

Fostering Cultural Connections: Fukuoka and Taiwan Join Forces for Student Exchange

In an exciting initiative to promote cultural exchange, Fukuoka International Airport Co., in collaboration with EF Education First, has introduced a groundbreaking program called "Weekend Overseas Study 2025". This unique opportunity, geared towards high school and university students from the Kyushu region, allows them to engage with their Taiwanese counterparts, enriching their academic experiences and cultural understanding.

A Taste of Globalization

The program kicked off with an event named "International Cafe" at the EF Taiwan office in Taipei, providing a vibrant platform for interaction between approximately 12 selected students from Fukuoka and 15 to 20 local Taiwanese students. This collaboration, held on January 24 and January 31, 2026, highlights the potential of international cooperation in education. Participants enjoyed ice-breaking games, delightful snacks from both countries, and deep discussions about their respective cultures.

The concept of a weekend study program fits perfectly with the geographic proximity of Fukuoka to Taiwan, making it feasible for students to embark on a rich overseas experience without the lengthy commitments usually associated with study abroad programs. Fukuoka's students could depart Friday evening and return Sunday night, making it both convenient and appealing.

Bridging Language Barriers

The participants, including six high school and six university students selected from nearly 100 applicants, demonstrated impressive English proficiency levels, with one high school student scoring a C1 and a university student achieving C2 in the EF SET test, which they all undertook before the trip. This event was a part of a series of educational endeavors aimed at developing global talent from the region.

Students engaged in various activities that emphasized the importance of communication across cultures.