The Japan Yunnan Friendship Association is a certified NPO that has long supported education in poor areas of Yunnan Province, China, where ethnic minorities live. Founded in 2000, it has consistently carried out educational support for children and women. According to its website, it has built 25 primary schools and supported the education of about 1,000 female high school students.
Two projects stand out. The "50 Primary Schools" project, begun in 2001, supports the construction of school buildings, dormitories and canteens, and continues to support the schools after they open. The "25 Small Dreams Fund" project, begun in 2006, supports schooling and student exchange for girls in high school in ethnic minority areas.
It also runs a human-resource development program for young people in Yunnan who study Japanese and young people in Japan, exchange events centered on food and ethnic culture, and student exchanges that link Japan and Yunnan. Over 100 volunteers are said to support its activities.
Key points
- Builds primary schools in poor areas of Yunnan and keeps supporting them after they open
- The "25 Small Dreams Fund" project supports schooling for girls in high school
- Alongside educational support, promotes cultural and student exchange between Japan and Yunnan
Why this organization's work stands out
Believing that education is the greatest force for escaping poverty and prejudice, the association builds schools together with local governments and residents and continues to watch over them afterward.
There are several ways to get involved, including individual and corporate membership, volunteering and donations. The association is described as an open group for anyone interested in Yunnan or in supporting the education of ethnic minorities.
Editor's comment
It is moving to see activities that accompany children's growth over a long time, from building schools to following up after graduation. Cultural exchange also makes Yunnan feel closer.
Details of the activities and how to take part are on the official website. Please take a look.