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 programs mandate, vision and mission and determine the strategic objectives for the future. Adaptations are being made to attract more educational institution interest, increase student participation and increase the number of participating Japanese host companies. To ensure the programs continuance and viability, growth of the program must be demonstrated between 06/07 and 07/08.

The following strategic initiatives have been identified for the 06/07 period:

• Update of website to include up to date information for students; prospective, current and alumni.
• Increase the flexibility of the program by opening up student availability in alignment with Canadian academic programs; that is, providing opportunities that not only commence in May, but also December and January.
• Visit every work site annually to increase company relationships with the program.
• Institute a Canada-Japan Co-op Student of the Year Award to recognize outstanding performance during an internship.
• Build on the strong links with the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo and Canadian Consulate offices in Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka.
• Co-host a reception at the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo on March 1st, 2006; facilitate an information session to attract new industry interest and student opportunities for 2006/2007.
• Redesign the three week immersion program to a one week pre-departure training to reduce cost of student participation.
• Open the program up to College�s who have Cooperative Education Programs who wish to participate.
• Host the first Canada-Japan Co-op Alumni Wine and Cheese Reception May 3rd, 2006.
• Release an annual Canada-Japan Co-op Program Newsletter, first release scheduled for May 2006.
• Release annual newsletter, release scheduled for July 2006.
• Individual de-brief sessions with students upon return from Japan by phone or in-person with Canada-Japan Co-op Program staff.
• Support to Canada-Japan Co-op Alumni when job searching for full-time jobs in Japan 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 Kagetsu, Canada-Japan Co-op Program Director at jenny.kagetsu@ubc.ca.