This year is the 40th year anniversary of JET, with reflections on global alumni networks, JETAA UK activities, and the future of UK–Japan exchange.
As the JET Programme celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, this milestone offers an opportunity not only to reflect on four decades of international exchange, but also to recognise the remarkable global community that JET has created. Forty years on, the programme continues to foster cultural understanding, lifelong friendships, and strong international connections through the energy and commitment of its alumni worldwide.
For JETAA UK, that spirit was on full display at the JETAA International Meeting (IM) held in Tokyo in November 2025. Although this was our first time attending, the experience quickly proved to be both inspiring and energising. More than simply a conference, the IM demonstrated the continuing strength of the global JET network and the shared passion that continues to unite former participants across generations and continents.
The event itself was exceptionally well organised thanks to the efforts of CLAIR and the host organisers. Throughout the meeting, participants engaged in discussions with enthusiasm, sincerity, and a strong sense of camaraderie. The atmosphere reflected exactly what has made the JET Programme so successful over the past forty years: openness, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to international exchange.
Presentations from chapters around the world were particularly engaging and offered valuable new perspectives, even for a long-established chapter such as JETAA UK. Discussions covered a wide range of topics, from alumni engagement and communications strategies to cultural programming and community outreach. One of the most valuable aspects of the meeting was the opportunity to exchange ideas on how alumni organisations can work more effectively with embassies, government institutions, and international partners. The networking sessions and social gatherings also served as an excellent example of “diplomacy through dialogue,” while giving many of us the chance to refresh our Japanese language skills.
JETAA UK was asked to present on the themes of “Relevance and Communication” and “Planning Large-Scale Events.” As the JET Programme enters its fifth decade, both topics are becoming increasingly important for alumni organisations seeking to remain dynamic and relevant for new generations of former participants.
In our presentation on communication and engagement, we highlighted recent initiatives designed to strengthen connections with alumni across the UK. These included expanding our use of social media, modernising and reviving the chapter newsletter, and developing a stronger professional networking presence through LinkedIn.
Although geographically smaller than many JETAA member nations, JETAA UK continues to grow in both activity and ambition. The organisation now consists of six branches, with a newly established sub-branch in the south of England further strengthening regional engagement. Cooperation between branches has increased significantly in recent years, enabling more coordinated events and stronger communication nationwide.
Our presentation on large-scale events focused particularly on the achievements of the Scotland Chapter, whose summer festivals and cultural programmes continue to expand in scale and reach. Through partnerships with local cultural groups and community organisations, these events have introduced Japanese culture to new audiences across Scotland through activities ranging from sumo demonstrations and manga workshops to traditional and contemporary cultural showcases.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be another exciting year for JETAA UK, particularly in the context of the JET Programme’s 40th anniversary celebrations. One major highlight will be the return of the JETAA European Conference later this year. With the revived Irish Chapter and the newly established Swiss Chapter continuing to develop, the timing could not be better for renewed European cooperation and exchange.
We are especially grateful to the CLAIR London Office for agreeing to support the conference by providing a venue in London. If plans proceed successfully, we hope to hold the event alongside Japan Matsuri in Trafalgar Square, one of the UK’s largest celebrations of Japanese culture and an event that JETAA UK has proudly helped organise over the past two years.
Alongside these major events, branches across the UK are preparing for a busy calendar of festivals and cultural activities, while online language classes and workshops continue to expand opportunities for engagement nationwide. JETAA UK is also preparing to launch its first mentoring programme, aimed at strengthening professional and personal connections within the alumni community.
As the JET Programme enters its fifth decade, JETAA UK remains committed to building on its extraordinary legacy. With the continued support of CLAIR and the Embassy of Japan, we look forward to creating even more opportunities for cultural exchange, networking, and friendship, while continuing to strengthen the relationship between Japan and the United Kingdom for many years to come.
