Applications open for 2025 JET Programme: An Opportunity for Aspiring Assistant Language Teachers

NEW DELHI: The Embassy of Japan in India has announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme, providing an exceptional opportunity for young college graduates to work as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) across Japan. This prestigious program seeks to promote international exchanges at the local level by fostering connections between Japanese youth and people from various foreign countries.

The JET Programme invites participants to assist Japanese Teachers of English (JTEs) in schools, where they will play a supportive role in English language education. ALTs are tasked with collaborating with JTEs in lesson planning, preparing teaching materials, and engaging in extracurricular activities, such as English clubs or sports. They also contribute by organizing cultural exchange programs, providing students with a unique opportunity to interact with and understand a foreign 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, generally from Monday to Friday. Saturdays, Sundays, and Japanese national holidays are considered off days, and participants are entitled to a minimum of ten days of paid leave per year. However, due to school or work-related events, ALTs may occasionally be required to work during weekends or holidays.

The placement of participants will be throughout Japan, with assignments to local government organizations and schools. While participants can submit preferences for their placements, these requests are not 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 continues to be a unique platform for young professionals seeking to gain international experience while contributing to the educational and cultural development of Japanese students. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official website of the Embassy of Japan in India to learn more about the application process and requirements for the 2025 intake.