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Border Free (Ashita-Tomorrow Collaborate with Japanese NPO Border Free)

Ashita-Tomorrow has partnered with Border Free, a Japanese nonprofit organization founded by college students, to expand the Ashita Ohanashi Sessions program (Short programs with 8 sessions each segment). These sessions are now available to high school and college students across all regions of Japan, not just the Tohoku (Northeastern) area.

Below is an introduction to Border Free. For more details, please visit their website at Border-Free.jp.

 

 

BORDER FREE: Bridging Educational Inequality

Founded in 2021 by university students in Japan, BORDER FREE is a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to combat educational inequality by providing accessible, high-quality learning opportunities for all children, regardless of their financial situation or personal background.

What We Do

At BORDER FREE, we believe every child deserves a safe and supportive environment to learn and grow. Through our various initiatives, we strive to create these opportunities:

After-School Learning Centers

Our after-school programs operate in multiple locations, such as Tama and Seiseki Sakuragaoka, offering academic support to students from elementary to high school. These centers provide welcoming environments where students can study at their own pace, focusing not just on academic achievement but also on personal growth and confidence-building.

Online Tutoring Program (STRADA)

For students requiring personalized support, BORDER FREE offers one-on-one online tutoring. In 2023, this program successfully served 22 students and continues to grow rapidly. University students act as mentors, forming strong connections with learners and helping them develop consistent study habits.

High School Café Project

Launched in 2024, this initiative provides high school students with hands-on business experience. Participants take on roles in running a real café, managing operations, creating menus, and executing marketing strategies. This program fosters leadership, teamwork, and entrepreneurial skills that prepare students for their future endeavors.

Our Impact

In 2023, BORDER FREE made remarkable strides in supporting students:

  • Over 100 students benefited from our in-person and online programs.

  • Our after-school programs served 52 students, offering small class sizes to ensure personalized attention.

  • Group classes emphasized critical subjects like English and Math, with specialized support for high school entrance exams.

  • The STRADA program provided flexible, one-on-one online academic coaching with guidance from top university mentors.

  • We expanded our team to include over 100 university volunteers dedicated to bridging the education gap. These mentors serve as role models, offering support in academics, life skills, and future planning.

Why It Matters

Educational inequality is a global issue, and in Japan, many children face economic and social barriers that limit their access to quality education. BORDER FREE works to level the playing field, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

  • Inclusive Access: Families receiving government aid can access our services for free or at a highly subsidized cost.

  • Personalized Support: Every child is paired with mentors who help them uncover their strengths and reach their full potential.

Our programs are designed to support children who may feel left behind in traditional school settings, giving them the tools and confidence to thrive.

Why You Should Care

BORDER FREE offers a unique opportunity for university students, both in Japan and abroad, to make a meaningful social impact. By volunteering with us, you can:

  • Directly contribute to changing a child’s future.

  • Gain invaluable experience in teaching, mentoring, and leadership.

  • Engage in work that builds skills relevant to education, social work, and community development.

Whether you’re passionate about education, committed to social change, or simply looking to give back, BORDER FREE is the place where your efforts can make a real difference.

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