Suntory Holdings Co. has launched the application process for its innovative environmental education initiative known as the "Mizuiku" program, inviting elementary schools to enroll for the 2025 academic year. This program is designed for students in grades 4 to 6 and seeks to deepen their understanding of the critical importance of water and nature in our lives.
With water being a vital resource, the "Mizuiku" program aims to teach children about the value of nature, the crucial role forests play in nurturing water, and actions that can protect this essential resource. Launched in 2004 at the "Suntory Natural Water Sanctuary Aso," the program has accumulated over 20 years of experience in promoting environmental awareness and education.
The educational program revolves around engaging experiences, featuring the "Forest and Water School," where students participate in explorations of forests and partake in water-related activities to enhance their learning. The outreach classes that are currently being recruited will focus on interactive learning, utilizing images and discussions to deepen students' knowledge about water.
Participating schools will have a unique opportunity to collaborate with responsible teachers and Mizuiku lecturers in conducting two sessions of 45-minute lessons. These lessons can be chosen to be delivered in person or online, offering flexible options that best suit the needs of each class.
For in-person lessons, the program caters to classes from elementary schools located in various prefectures including Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Yamanashi, Nagano, Gifu, Aichi, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, Tottori, and Kumamoto. Typically, a maximum of 25 students per class can enroll, while online lessons provide an option for up to 15 students per class. Schools can also submit joint applications with other classes or grades if they wish.
Interestingly, the "Mizuiku" program has expanded beyond Japan's borders, addressing water-related challenges and regional specificities in eight different countries across Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Following its initiation in Vietnam in 2015, the program successfully engaged over 1.19 million participants worldwide by 2024, highlighting its global significance.
Suntory has enriched the learning experience by introducing additional resources like the "Homework Activity," a post-class educational program utilizing ICT devices, available to all classes participating in outreach lessons.
The recruitment process follows a first-come, first-served basis for classes running from May 2025 to March 2026. Interested schools are urged to apply at least 40 days before their desired implementation date, as applications will close once the target number of participants is reached. A preliminary meeting, lasting approximately one hour, will also be conducted to ensure smooth collaboration and coordination between the teachers and the Mizuiku lecturers.
With Japan being blessed with abundant water resources, it is imperative to educate the younger generations about its importance. The "Mizuiku" initiative is a commendable step in doing this, drawing attention to environmental awareness that is often overlooked in daily life.
To apply for the outreach lessons or to learn more about the program, interested parties can visit the Suntory Mizuiku "Outreach Lesson" homepage. The Suntory Mizuiku Office is also available for inquiries via phone at 0570-032-190 during business hours from Monday to Friday, excluding holidays.
As water conservation becomes increasingly crucial in the face of climate challenges, initiatives like "Mizuiku" are essential in fostering a culture of awareness and dedication among the next generation. The information shared reflects a strong commitment from Suntory Holdings in securing a better future for our planet's water resources.
