Program brings people to Japan for up to five years of teaching, in rural and urban settings.

From the JET web site

Sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a way to increase mutual understanding among people of Japan and people of other countries, the goal Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET)is to internationalize local Japanese communities by inviting and involving foreign teachers.

Unlike most service programs I write about on this blog, JET participation is considered contract employment between program participants and the schools where they teach — JET teachers’s airfare to and from Japan is covered, and they earn a salary.

Similar to a service corps, JET participants form a network for support throughout Japan — and throughout the world as JET Alumni.

Also similar to a service corps, the JET participant’s role does not end when the work day ends — they are meant to be cultural ambassadors who have an impact in the community beyond the classroom.

JET recruits teachers from around the world. Applications to the JET Programme are made through the Japanese Embassy in your country; find yours.

Eligibility for the program includes qualities as varied as an interest in Japan, and good diction in your native language (for teaching purposes).

Today, the Idealist.org Global Volunteering Fair takes place in New York, at Barnard College. Check out the fair Saturday in Boston. In honor of the fairs, The New Service blog will feature international service programs all week!

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