Strategic Initiatives for the Program
Jenny Kagetsu, Director of CJCP
Three years of strategic initiatives for the program (2007/2008, 2008/2009, and 2009/2010)
- Introduction of mandatory language testing for all technical level applications, conducted by Japanese Language Teacher (cost of $30 to student) to accurately reflect student language ability
- Increased opportunities for non-technical positions such as the commencement of English Teaching positions and communication office oriented roles
- Implementation of requirement that all students take at least one Japanese class prior to the commencement of training
- Evaluation of immersion program resulted in reduction from three-week to one-week pre-departure training to reduce costs for students reduced from $2000 - $250
- Marketing emphasis in Japan to recruit new Japanese employers to allow for additional opportunities year round for students
- Individual marketing for selected students in identified industries
- Opening up of program from University only to University and College level Co-op undergraduate programs
- Change in fee structure to promote greater educational institution membership numbers
- Update of website to include up to date information for students; prospective, current and alumni
- Increased program flexibility by opening up student availability in alignment with Canadian academic programs; that is, providing opportunities that not only commence in May, but also September and January
- Annual workplace site visits to increase company relationships with the program
- Implementation of a Canada-Japan Co-op Student of the Year Award to recognize outstanding performance during an internship
- Build on the strong links with the Embassy of Canada in Tokyo, Canadian Consulate office in Nagoya, Canadian Government Trade Office in Hiroshima and Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
- Co-host and receptions at the Embassy of Canada in Tokyo and facilitate information sessions to attract new industry interest and student opportunities annually
- Host Alumni Wine and Cheese Reception every two years
- Release an annual report on the program
- Provide individual de-brief sessions with students upon return from Japan by phone or in-person with Canada-Japan Co-op Program staff
- Support Canada-Japan Co-op Alumni in job search for full-time positions in Japan after graduation
