Chandra Sekhar Academy International School, Kyoto

I was just on the website for Chandra Sekhar Academy International School (CSAIS) in Kyoto, and it really impressed me with its unique approach and vision. Established on April 6, 2018, CSAIS is described as “the first ever CBSE school in Kansai region,” aimed at creating a nurturing environment for children of the international community living in Japan. The school’s mission is to bridge cultural gaps by providing an education that honors both the children’s origins and their experiences in Japan. As they put it, they are committed to “creating a space for learning that ties those from overseas with Japan” and help foster deeper connections between people and countries.

One of the standout features of this school is its emphasis on the Japanese language and culture. CSAIS is proud to be associated with its parent school in Puri, Odisha, India, which has been offering Japanese language education since 2004. As noted on their website, “this is the only school in Odisha which nurtures Japanese language & culture with utmost precision and neatness.” This dedication to Japanese education extends to CSAIS, where Japanese is integrated into the curriculum as an elective subject, alongside the standard CBSE curriculum. They aim to provide students with the tools they need to thrive in a globalized world, which is reflected in their diverse offerings. They highlight the “desire from the core to do something benevolent to make this world a better place to live in,” and that spirit permeates their educational philosophy.

The school also emphasizes its commitment to the local community and cultural exchange. They have established various programs where students from Japanese universities participate in internships and form connections with CSAIS students. One notable aspect is their dedication to artistic and cultural diplomacy; they mention organizing stage shows where Japanese and Odishan artists collaborate, celebrating solidarity and promoting mutual respect between cultures. CSAIS has even participated in international projects like the “Kokorozashi Art Project” and “The Biggest Painting in the World 2020,” showcasing their dedication to fostering global citizenship among students.

Additionally, CSAIS focuses on a well-rounded education, integrating curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities that aim to develop young minds with “utmost sincerity and dedication.” They have created a structure that allows for gradual upgrades to the school’s facilities and programs, ensuring that they meet the needs of their growing student body while maintaining a focus on academic rigor and cultural education. They tout their eco-friendly environment, which spans four acres, as a space where students can thrive, learn, and grow, further fostering that nurturing environment they emphasize.

Mr. Kunna Dash, the president of CSAIS, shares a heartfelt message on the website that reflects the school’s aspirations. He states, “we wish to develop the children from different parts of the world & to nurture them into intellectuals who love both culture of their origins & Japan, and who have courtesy.” This sentiment clearly illustrates the school’s commitment to inclusivity and its goal of molding students into global citizens who are well-versed in multiple cultures. The focus on affordable education for expatriate families is another highlight, as CSAIS aims to alleviate concerns for parents regarding their children’s education while they work in Japan.

Overall, Chandra Sekhar Academy International School stands out for its unique combination of Indian and Japanese cultures, its dedication to nurturing a diverse student body, and its commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful educational environment. As they strive to develop “young ambassadors to bring the world closer under the canopy of EDUCATION,” it’s clear that they are not just preparing students academically, but are also equipping them with the cultural proficiency needed to navigate a global society. If you’re looking for a school that prioritizes both educational excellence and cultural enrichment, CSAIS seems like an inspiring option.