Kokkyo naki Kodomotachi (KnK, "Children without Borders") is an international cooperation NGO established in Japan in 1997. Under its vision of "education and friendship for every child across borders," it has provided educational opportunities to more than 230,000 children in 15 countries and regions and supported their independence. As of 2025, it continues education support in 6 countries and regions.
In Cambodia and the Philippines it runs "Youth Homes," independence-support facilities that offer education and vocational training to young people who have been street children or victims of trafficking. Behind its work is the wish to remove the "age-15 wall," where support from facilities ends because of age. It also offers classes in emotional education and physical education at a refugee camp in Jordan, and sewing and weaving training for young women living in poverty.
In Japan, it carries out education and awareness projects so that children can learn about the world's situation. There are many ways to take part, including the "Friendship Reporter" program in which participants visit and interview children overseas, photo exhibitions and report meetings, and support through fair trade.
Key points
- Educational opportunities provided to more than 230,000 children in 15 countries and regions so far
- Support for independence through education and vocational training at the Youth Homes in Cambodia and the Philippines
- Many ways to take part from Japan, including Friendship Reporters and photo exhibitions
Why this organization deserves attention
It is distinctive for looking at children whose age or circumstances make them hard to reach with support, and for nurturing the "ability to go out into society and live independently" through education and vocational training. Its view of protecting the next generation of children through vocational training for young women is also striking.
It is an easy organization to picture supporting, because how donations are used, such as meals, school uniforms, classes and vocational training, is explained concretely. Its website also mentions that it has carried out the JANIC Accountability Self-Check.
Editor's comment
Every child needs a few more years of time to prepare for adulthood. KnK's work seems to be an effort to hand that time to children.
Besides donating, you can get involved in ways you can manage, such as joining events or buying fair trade products. Why not start by looking at the activity news on the official website?