#Japan #Tokyo #EF Education First #Speech Contest #Multilingualism

Celebrating the Power of Language

On June 8, 2025, the long-awaited EF Speech Grand Prix took place at the Shibuya Sakura Stage in Tokyo, organized by EF Education First Japan. This year's event highlighted the talents of 12 finalists—four middle school students and eight high school students—who were selected from nearly 500 applicants nationwide. The theme, 'The Power of Language in Connecting Culture', set the stage for inspiring discussions on the role of language in our ever-evolving world.

The competition attracted a diverse range of participants from various types of educational institutions. This year marked the largest turnout in its history, showcasing not just private and public schools in the Kanto area, but also rural public schools and international institutions across all 47 prefectures. The widespread participation emphasized the enduring impact of language and cultural exchange across Japan, allowing students to experience and express their perspectives on the power of communication.

Diverse and Contemporary Topics

The finalists delivered riveting speeches on modern and diverse topics that resonated deeply with both the audience and the judges. The presentations included:

• - AI and Communication: Exploring how human-like communication can thrive amid the rise of artificial intelligence.
• - The Possibilities of Multilingualism: Discussing the importance of transcending language barriers beyond just English.
• - The Power of Non-Verbal Expression: Analyzing how body language can foster international understanding.
• - Rediscovering Ainu Culture: Shedding light on how indigenous languages and cultures can offer fresh perspectives.
• - Growth Through Study Abroad Experiences: Sharing personal transformations made possible by learning new languages.

These speeches transcended mere presentations; they prompted thought-provoking inquiries into societal challenges while also proposing potential solutions. Participants effectively demonstrated the ability to inspire change through language, embodying the mantra 'the power to change the future with words'.

Competitors Shine in Their Own Uniqueness

In the awards ceremony, the judges evaluated speeches based on the criteria of 'individuality and social relevance'. The results were as follows:

• - Middle School Category:

- Winner: Yedd
- Runner-up: Tanaka
- Creative Award: Ito

• - High School Category:

- Winner: Son
- Runner-up: Ueno
- Creative Award: Nakatsu

The champions received a week-long study abroad opportunity at the EF school in Singapore, complete with round-trip airfare. Other winners were awarded invitations to EF's study programs and gift certificates usable abroad, further encouraging their pursuit of language studies and cultural exchange.

Expanding Outreach Through Digital Platforms

For the first time, the competition was live-streamed on the official EF Japan Instagram (@efjapan), generating excitement among educational stakeholders and students alike. Highlights of finalists' speeches are available on social media for a limited time, providing an educational opportunity for viewers to connect with the language and sensibilities of their peers.

Thoughts from the Judges

One of the judges noted, "This year's participants brought forward a new perspective that blends traditional culture with the latest technology, shaping a fresh form of cultural exchange. Their insights on 'human-like communication' in an AI-dominated era were particularly striking".

Event Overview

• - Date: June 8, 2025
• - Participants: 12 finalists chosen from nearly 500 nationwide applicants (4 middle school, 8 high school)
• - Theme: 'The Power of Language in Connecting Culture'
• - Viewing Method: Publicly available on EF Japan's Instagram highlight reel (@efjapan)!

About EF Speech Grand Prix

The EF Speech Grand Prix aims to cultivate the international perspective of middle and high school students as they express their thoughts in English. Through participation, students not only improve their language skills but also enhance their logical thinking and expressiveness while fostering cultural understanding.

Looking ahead to 2026, details regarding the competition and application timeline will be announced on the EF Japan dedicated website and official social media (@efjapan). We eagerly await the next wave of challenges and inspirations from students nationwide.

More about EF Education First

Founded in 1965 in Sweden, EF Education First operates with the motto 'Education First'. They are the largest private educational institution in the world, employing 50,000 individuals, 25,000 of whom are teachers. Their mission is to help people connect across borders through language learning, studying abroad, degree programs, and cultural exchange. With over 100 global offices and 50 language schools, EF continues to innovate in education, not just as an agency, but as a leader in language training and cultural understanding.

For more information on studying abroad, visit their official site: EF Japan.