Experiencing “Learning Through English” with Programming

KEIA emphasizes not just “learning English,” but “learning through English.” As part of this, a text programming workshop using IchigoJam was held in the morning. IchigoJam is a compact educational computer developed by B-Inc, designed for children and using the beginner-friendly BASIC programming language. This workshop was attended by 19 past KEIA participants and 8 camp leaders. Participants challenged themselves by writing and running simple programs in English, such as the “River Game” and the “Number Guessing Game.” The Kumon Method emphasizes independent learning, and this aligns perfectly with programming, which requires logical thinking and repeated trial and error. It became a valuable opportunity for children to deepen their learning while using English as a tool.
GNI Beyond Camp – An Afternoon of Sharing Growth

In the afternoon GNI program, 39 elementary school GIC participants, 9 OBOGs (alumni university students), 9 camp leaders, and 4 staff members gathered. Under the theme of “Past, Present, and Future,” the following sessions were held:
Opening Speech by Mr. Enoki (Global Network Team Leader)
Mr. Enoki gave a warm message: “It’s been eight months since the camp. Today is a special day. Let’s enjoy the activities and support one another.”
Ice Breaking: Networking Island
Participants from different GIC years interacted by asking each other questions about their group names, activities at the time, and their current selves. Even those meeting for the first time quickly found common ground and connected with one another.
Dear Future Me – From Myself Back Then, To Myself Now
Elementary school students gave presentations, sharing their dreams such as “I want to work harder at English” and “I want to go to America.”
•A 3rd-grade boy began studying English more seriously after GIC. He shared his dream of visiting America to watch baseball games.
•A 4th-grade girl talked about how she started listening to speeches by former President Trump, developed a strong interest in American culture and English, and is continuing to expose herself to English in her daily life.
After the presentations, university student and older OBOGs shared warm messages such as “That’s a wonderful dream!” and “We’re cheering you on!”—a moment that highlighted the heartwarming connections across generations.

My Journey – Learning from the Path of Growth
Early GIC members took the stage to share the paths they’ve walked since their participation.
•Presenter 1 (University Student)
Inspired by GIC, she became more interested in English, took EIKEN and IELTS, and visited the Philippines, Australia, and other countries. She is currently studying to become a medical professional.
•Presenter 2 (University Graduate)
After traveling the world, he was accepted into an aviation college to become a pilot. His dream is to “connect the world through humorous in-flight announcements.”
These diverse journeys and courageous challenges were deeply inspiring for all participants.

Discussions – A Place to Talk About Dreams and Challenges
In group discussions, participants exchanged thoughts on topics such as:
•Water and natural resources
•Things they did after GIC
•What they want to try next—either on their own or together
Dear Future Me (II) – To My Future Self
Participants wrote postcards to their future selves about what they want to achieve. As they imagined how they might look back on this day in a few years, each participant quietly and thoughtfully took a step toward the future.
GNT Family Got Talent & Networking Time
The event wrapped up with a talent show, where participants of all ages showcased their unique talents. Children and OBOGs performed dances, comedy routines, and more, filling the venue with smiles and applause. Their confident presentations of their strengths touched the hearts of all attendees and reminded everyone of the joy of taking on challenges. Afterward, everyone transitioned into a relaxed networking time over light refreshments. Joyful voices echoed as old friends reunited, new connections were formed, and contact information was exchanged along with promises to meet again in the future. These cross-generational, cross-cultural, and cross-role networks are invaluable assets that have been nurtured through GNT activities over the years. The environment in which participants can continue building relationships, stay connected, and inspire one another’s growth holds a value far beyond monetary worth. Having a place like this—a space to reconnect, reflect, and look forward—becomes a powerful source of motivation for each participant as they take their next step into the future. One network. Many journeys.


Learning that Connects and Lights the Way to the Future

Through the 5th Global Network Initiative, children were able to reaffirm their abilities to “learn in English,” “support one another,” and “think for themselves and take on challenges.” The foundational academic skills cultivated through the Kumon Method serve as the base for these future-oriented challenges. As children’s dreams and aspirations continue to grow, Kumon will continue to gently support their journeys forward.
Related Links
KUMON English Immersion Activities (KEIA)
KUMON English Immersion Activities (KEIA)
Global Immersion Camp (GIC) とは
What is the Global Immersion Camp (GIC)?
Global Immersion Camp (GIC) 2024
Global Immersion Camp (GIC) 2024 Final Report
IchigoJam
Children’s computer IchigoJam – First programming computer
Past Article Link Format Rule
The 1st Global Network Initiatives (GNI)