【Project Activities】

A program for developing the next generation of leaders in rugby and society in Japan and Asia, implemented by the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) and the Rugby Association of Maharashtra (India). The program consists of three parts: pre-lectures, activities in India, and individual projects after returning to Japan. The pre-lectures cover leadership, management, and sports and sustainability through online and weekend in-person sessions. Activities in India involve a one-week trip to India from early February to visit local environmental NGOs and learn about addressing environmental issues through rugby by planning and operating an environmentally friendly Sevens tournament (Green 7’s Cup). After returning to Japan, participants launch and implement individual projects based on what they learned. Two youth leaders from India will visit Japan to learn about rugby promotion and social issue initiatives through rugby in Japan. The program consists of a total of 12 participants (3 males and 3 females from each country) mainly in their mid-20s.

【Project Background】

JRFU is implementing this project to develop human resources capable of addressing environmental issues through rugby, fostering international leadership and management skills, and solving social issues through sports in their respective communities. This is based on the international rugby network of the “Asian Scrum Project,” which JRFU has been conducting since 2011, and the “Declaration for Promoting Environmental Sustainability” in October of this year, targeting youth.

【Project Objective】

To learn and practice leadership in a multicultural environment, project management, and initiatives to address social issues through rugby, especially environmental issues.

【Project Area】

Environmental conservation through sports (climate change countermeasures, etc.)

【Methods】

Human Resource Development

【Outcomes】

Development of 12 youth leaders. Implementation of the Green 7’s Cup in India.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

“Through this experience, I learned the importance of not just thinking but actually taking action. I realized that even the smallest step can eventually lead to significant change, and I strongly felt that if I want change, I must initiate it myself. With this learning and experience, I will take the next step and materialize my vision.” (Participant)

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

Follow-up on participants’ post-program activities. It was difficult to provide support for how participants could continue their projects while also dealing with university studies and job hunting.

【URL】

https://www.rugby-japan.jp/news/53095