Okotoks Hosts Japanese Students for Cultural Exchange Program

It seems the students "chipped" away at their cultural differences and found common ground in Okotoks.

A group of 26 Japanese high school students, aged 14 to 16, recently spent nearly two weeks in Okotoks as part of an educational and cultural exchange program. The students, accompanied by three chaperones, visited Okotoks from July 25 to Aug. 6 and stayed with local host families.

The program, organized by the Muskoka Learning Institute (MLI) Education Group, included an ESL program at Viking Rentals Centre and various community activities. The students also learned about Canadian culture and history, including Okotoks landmarks and local First Nation stories.

During their stay, the students participated in a farewell ceremony, where they thanked their host families, performed traditional Japanese songs and dances, and shared what they learned throughout the program. The students also received thank-you cards from MLI.

For many of the students, the experience was a memorable one. Yuki Nakaya was surprised by the beauty of Lake Louise, while Shiori Kira appreciated the friendliness of the people in Okotoks. The students also enjoyed trying new foods, including ketchup chips, which became a hit among the group.

The program has been running since 2013 and provides an opportunity for cultural exchange between Japanese students and Okotoks residents. After the farewell ceremony, the students spent their final night with their host families before returning to Japan with a new perspective on Canadian culture.