In 2024, the nonprofit organization Seibo conducted approximately five classes at the Yokohama Aoba Campus of Clark Memorial International High School in Tama-Plaza. The classes also welcomed three international interns, covering topics such as global understanding, African poverty issues through Malawi, coffee cultivation and farming methods, and social business in Japan using fair trade coffee.
English Learning and Global Understanding Classes
Seibo tailored its classes to meet the school’s needs, offering lessons in both English and Japanese to inspire students preparing for study abroad. Drawing on the representative’s experience in English education, the classes integrated elements of English learning, including skit training for selling Malawi coffee, customer service methods, and business English.
Additionally, students learned nutrition-related vocabulary from an Australian intern majoring in nutrition and practical community-building methods necessary for nonprofits from a Dutch intern. The classes provided a wealth of experience and exposure to international perspectives.
※Find out more about our English lesson from here in Japanese.
Understanding the Differences Between NPOs and General Incorporated Associations, and Learning About Social Enterprises
The students also explored the various types of organizations in Japan, such as NPOs (nonprofit organizations) and general incorporated associations, as compared to charity organizations overseas. Discussions included questions like, “Does ‘nonprofit’ mean no profit is allowed?” “How can organizations be maintained and operated transparently?” and “How can donations be used most effectively to achieve organizational goals?”
Through these discussions, the students learned that while NPOs rely on donations, general incorporated associations actively engage in revenue-generating activities. They considered how to build trust in Japanese society while generating income to contribute to societal betterment.
Practical Event Execution
Finally, students proposed concrete ideas for support activities and were tasked with organizing an actual event. The event, held on December 21 in Shinjuku, required students to find ways to share what they learned with families, foster an understanding of Malawi’s challenges, and promote interest in the products and activities.
One initiative included workshops to help attendees learn about Malawi’s natural environment, allowing students to put their knowledge into action.
