This is a brief overview of the support structure available to JET participants in Kagoshima Prefecture:
Kagoshima Association for Japan Exchange and Teaching (KAJET)
KAJET is the Kagoshima prefectural chapter of AJET and operates independently of National AJET. KAJET is an independent, self-supporting volunteer organization comprised of current JET participants. KAJET is a social organization which provides an informal exchange of information and ideas about daily living in Kagoshima and organizes social events throughout the year.
You can reach KAJET representatives at kagoshima@ajet.net.
Prefectural Advisors (PAs)
PAs, unrelated to their placement or place of employment, shall perform duties as set forth in the following items for the benefit of all JET participants and/or COs within the Host Prefecture:
- Counseling and consultation
- Provision of information necessary for JET participants’ daily lives
- Mediation and promotion of understanding between JETs and COs
- Response to crises situations involving JETs
- Keeping and handling records in relation to the above
- Outreach to JETs about the JET counseling system
- Orientation and training seminars
- Promoting the formation of a self-help network for JETs
Block Leaders
The block system is a regional support system based on proximity. As Kagoshima is one of the largest prefectures in Japan, the Block Leaders are a key component of the crisis prevention and disaster awareness system. Block Leaders are volunteer JET participants who can answer basic questions about your local area, provide emergency information in the event of natural disasters and will contact JETs following a disaster to ensure everyone is okay.
Who Do I Ask For Help?
KAJET representatives are a good resource for general information about living in Japan, but KAJET is only a volunteer organization of fellow JETs. KAJET is primarily a social organization. While we’re more than happy to listen to you if you have something you want to get off your chest, it’s important to remember that the PAs are trained, professional advisors who can give you far more assistance than your fellow JETs and they are legally obligated to keep all information strictly confidential.
So if you have any problems or concerns, either personally or professionally, the PAs are your best resource for assistance.
