#Japan #Shinjuku #UNHCR #ISI Language School #Refugee Support

UNHCR Representative Visits ISI Language School in Shinjuku

In an important step toward refugee support and integration in Japan, the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) representative in Japan, Ms. Fumiko Kashiwagi, recently visited the ISI Language School in Shinjuku. This visit, which took place on May 13, 2026, was part of an ongoing commitment by ISI, operated by WEWORLD, to assist refugees through education.

Since 2022, ISI Language School has implemented a special scholarship program aimed at providing free, long-term Japanese language education to individuals who have sought refuge in Japan due to conflict or persecution. As of May 2026, the program has successfully supported 90 refugee students by offering them up to two years of structured Japanese curriculum, focusing not just on daily conversations but also preparing them for future studies and job placements. During the visit, they discussed refugee support initiatives at ISI and engaged in dialogues with current scholarship students, further exploring possibilities for collaboration and support.

Reporting on Refugee Support Activities

The visit included a report on the school’s various achievements in refugee support, highlighting how ISI’s curriculum aids students in achieving long-term self-sufficiency in Japanese society. A survey conducted in 2025 among current students indicated that 63.6% of respondents found the education to be extremely beneficial, and 36.4% reported finding it helpful for their daily communication needs, including interactions in hospitals and workplaces.

Following the briefing, UNHCR representatives toured the Shinjuku campus to observe the school's learning facilities and witness the diverse international student body engaged in a collaborative educational environment.

Conversations with Scholarship Students and Faculty

A significant portion of the visit involved a discussion featuring two current special scholarship students from Ukraine and Iran, both enrolled in the Intermediate class at ISI since January of this year. Joined by faculty and UNHCR staff, they shared insights into their experiences. A graduate who had previously utilized the scholarship program and now works at WEWORLD also participated.

Reflecting on the challenges faced upon arriving in Japan, the students expressed how learning Japanese has transformed their daily lives. One student, aspiring to become a journalist, acknowledged the difficulties of adapting to complex grammar but emphasized the invaluable learning environment at ISI that supports daily progress and interaction with native speakers. Meanwhile, the other student, aiming for medical school, described how revisiting the language fundamentals has boosted their confidence in daily interactions and in navigating bureaucratic procedures in Japan.

Voices of Appreciation

Ms. Fumiko Kashiwagi, UNHCR Japan Representative

"It is heartwarming and deeply appreciated to witness Japanese educational institutions providing continued and concrete support to refugees. We look forward to expanding our collaboration in promoting understanding and advocacy for refugees in Japan."

Current Scholarship Student (Journalism Aspirant from Ukraine)

"Learning Japanese has been a challenge due to its unique grammar, but I am grateful for the consistent environment at ISI where I can improve daily. After graduation, I hope to work in Japan while enhancing my language skills. Communicating with local residents is vital to bridging cultural gaps."

Current Scholarship Student (Medicine Aspirant from Iran)

"There have been moments of frustration communicating my needs due to language barriers. However, studying at ISI from the foundation up has instilled confidence in my daily interactions. I consider myself part of this community, not just a foreigner, and I strive to continue growing my language abilities."

Atsushi Iwabuchi, ISI Language School Faculty

"In our Intermediate class, where the two scholarship students are enrolled, we cover the four essential language skills while learning Kanji at an elementary to junior high school level. They consistently express their commitment to their education, and their dedication is evident in our classroom. Our mission is to support their Japanese language journey, helping them realize their potential."

WEWORLD Staff (Graduate of ISI School)

"Some of my peers prioritized work over education upon arrival, and they now struggle with language proficiency. While it can be lonely and challenging to study away from home, the resilience and determination to persist opens doors. I take pride in being part of WEWORLD and supporting current students at ISI School."

The Role of Japanese Language Education in Refugee Support

For refugees and asylum seekers, overcoming language barriers is foundational for navigating medical, administrative, and employment systems in Japan. Access to comprehensive Japanese language education that transcends basic conversation is crucial for enabling social integration and supporting their professional and academic aspirations.

WEWORLD has utilized over 30 years of experience in Japanese language education to collaborate with agencies like UNHCR, offering continued assistance to refugees. Such partnerships between educational institutions and international agencies lay the groundwork for refugees to lead fulfilling lives in Japanese society.

About ISI Language School

Operating in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagano, ISI Language School is Japan's largest language school with approximately 10,000 students enrolled annually. It offers diverse programs ranging from everyday conversation to preparation for university entrance exams and corporate Japanese, facilitating social integration within Japanese society.

Official Website: ISI Education

About WEWORLD

With the mission of creating spaces for people to realize their dreams through learning and growth, WEWORLD has been involved in diverse educational initiatives, including language education and international student support services.

Company Name: WEWORLD Inc.
Location: 12th Floor, Sumitomo Real Estate Shinjuku Grand Tower, 8-17-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Founded: April 19, 2021
Representative: Masayuki Ogino
Business Operations: Japanese language education, vocational school, university management, career guidance, study abroad services
URL: WEWORLD