LETTER – Kamloops and Uji should revive teacher exchange program
Byodoin Temple in Uji, Japan. (Image: Japan Travel)
Re: EDITORIAL – City’s relationship with Uji is worth preserving, with less pomp
Thank you for the good piece on Uji, and continued support for our sister city. Twenty-two years ago I was a sister city ambassador in Uji, otherwise known as an English teacher an AET.
It was a great program organized by Kamloops and Uji to employ Kamloops post graduates to teach in their junior highs and elementary schools as guest teachers.
The English exchange felt somewhat undervalued by Kamloops, unfortunately, focusing on the annual trips. It created job opportunities for three Kamloops residents at a time of need for them. All returned to productive careers with enhanced international experience.
And every day we promoted Canada and Kamloops life while in Uji. I know many of my associate Japanese teachers and students came to Kamloops later as tourists as well.
On my recent return to Uji I met many old associates and friends who continue to remember our contributions and friendships, and Kamloops connection.
Recently I understand Uji reverted to the JET program for their now 9 English teachers without anyone from Kamloops. I hope Kamloops can request a revival of the program… for even just one teacher… or ask Uji to request a local or B.C. Interior candidate from JET, who could be supported by Kamloops (bursary, or cover the plane ticket?) and take on the role of Sister City ambassador. That certainly is an economic opportunity and tourism promotion is another through such AET/ambassador.
Thank you again. Uji was an amazing city… the heart of the heart of cultural Japan, Kyoto, and should stay valued as our connection.
KEVIN WALKER
ArmchairMayor.ca 
We must always respect the Nihonjin. The homeless disgrace the sacred grounds of the Japanese Cultural Centre and bring shame to the Nihonjin by smoking dope there. They had to put up an expensive fence to keep the filth and trash out. It was getting really bad. They also disgrace the beautiful torii at Riverside Park by sitting on those sacred grounds and smoking their dirty dope. I hope this craziness ends soon. Thank you to all who maintain the sacred ties with Uji.
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