Program Update
The Canada-Japan Co-op Program administration moved from the University of Victoria to the University of British Columbia in 2005. With the move of administration, came the opportunity to review the program mandate, vision and mission and determine the strategic objectives for the future. Changes were made to attract more educational institution interest, increase student participation and increase the number of participating Japanese host companies.
The following strategic initiatives have been identified for the 08/09 and 09/10 period:
- The release of a new membership institutional fee structure in 2008
- A national marketing campaign to increase institution participation which increased membership from 8 members in 2005 to 15 in 2010; a 47% increase (2009)
- A marketing campaign to Japanese companies on the benefits and ease of participation in the program which resulted in the addition of 16 new companies hiring students (2006-2010)
- Annual in-person and telephone student and employer site visit objectives to strengthen relationships between The Canada-Japan Co-op Program and participating Japanese employers (2006-2010)
- Hosting of receptions and information sessions in Japan and Canada (2006-2010)
- The Provision of debrief sessions to all students upon return from their work experiences in Japan
- Support for Co-op Japan Program Alumni in connecting with companies in Japan for full-time jobs after graduation
Canada-Japan Co-op Alumni feedback is greatly appreciated, if you have any ideas or suggestions on how the program can be improved and expanded, please contact Jenny Reilly, Canada-Japan Co-op Program Director at jenny.reilly@ubc.ca.
