DIRECTOR'S GREETING

Dear Friends,

My name is Yasuko Uchida and I am the Director of the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles.

It has truly been my pleasure to be assigned here in September 2020, and nearly four years have passed since I came here.

During the early challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we experimented with various approaches to our operations. This period provided a valuable opportunity to explore new initiatives such as effective online and hybrid delivery, the launch of an electronic library, the promotion of remote work, and the establishment of online meetings and gatherings.

Starting in 2022, we gradually increased in-person activities. Witnessing the enthusiasm and joy of participants engaging in face-to-face interactions, which reminded me of the invaluable importance of in-person experiences, where people can share, connect, and form lasting friendships.

Moving forward, we aim to strike a balance between in-person, online, and hybrid formats to provide opportunities for individuals to encounter, rediscover, and pursue Japanese language and culture as a lifelong passion or career, while also fostering lifelong friendships.

Every three years, the Japan Foundation conducts a survey of the current state of Japanese language education overseas. The last survey, conducted in 2021, revealed that the number of Japanese language learners in the United States was approximately 160,000, ranking seventh in the world. However, challenges such as the retirement and shortage of Japanese language teachers, and a decrease in the number of institutions, persist. We will continue to provide support through grants and advocacy activities. In recent years, we have also ventured into a new area of supporting Japanese language education for children with Japanese backgrounds overseas.

Our center will continue to promote mutual understanding between Japan and the United States through two main pillars: Japanese language education support and arts and culture initiatives. We sincerely appreciate your continued support and look forward to collaborating with you in various programs.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or suggestions. 

Thank you for your continued support.
 

Sincerely,
Yasuko Uchida
Director of the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles