The Embassy of Japan in India has announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme. This prestigious initiative offers young college graduates the chance to work as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) throughout Japan. The program aims to enhance international exchanges at the local level by building connections between Japanese youth and individuals from diverse foreign backgrounds.
The JET Programme offers participants the opportunity to support Japanese Teachers of English (JTEs) in schools by assisting with English language instruction. As Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs), they will help JTEs with lesson planning, develop teaching materials, and participate in extracurricular activities like English clubs and sports. Additionally, ALTs will organize cultural exchange programs, giving students a valuable chance to engage with and learn about a different culture.
Participants in the program will receive an annual remuneration of approximately 3.36 million yen (equivalent to around INR 17.9 lakh) in their first year of employment. Salary increases will be granted for subsequent years of service. The program initially offers a one-year contract, with the possibility of extending the contract for up to three years, or in some cases, a total of five years.
ALTs are expected to work 35 hours per week, typically from Monday to Friday. Weekends and Japanese national holidays are considered days off, and participants are entitled to a minimum of ten days of paid leave annually. However, ALTs may occasionally need to work on weekends or holidays due to school or work-related events. Assignments will be across Japan, with placements in local government organizations and schools. While participants can indicate their placement preferences, these requests cannot be guaranteed.
Japanese students begin learning English formally at the age of 10, during their fifth year of elementary school and continue their language education throughout junior high and senior high school. ALTs play a vital role in promoting communicative language skills in the classroom. Additionally, their presence offers students a valuable opportunity to familiarize themselves with another culture, furthering the exchange of ideas and perspectives between Japan and other countries.
The JET Programme remains a distinctive opportunity for young professionals to gain international experience while contributing to the educational and cultural growth of Japanese students. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official website of the Embassy of Japan in India for detailed information on the application process and requirements for the 2025 intake.
