Japan Karatedo Federation Develops Karate Education Program for International Schools for the First Time as a Central Competitive Organization - In Collaboration with MIRAI MINDS Inc.

Scene from a JKF-hosted training session

The Japan Karatedo Federation (hereinafter, JKF), a public interest incorporated foundation, has partnered with MIRAI MINDS Inc., which develops after-school education programs for children attending international schools, to develop an after-school karate education program. A pilot program will be conducted for three months from April to June 2026 at Kohana International School Tsurumi Campus in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, with the first class held on April 16th (Thursday) and open to the media.

Background to Program Development

Signing ceremony between MIRAI MINDS Inc. (Representative: Ms. Tanya Malik) and JKF (President: Mr. Yoshihiro Sasagawa)

According to MIRAI MINDS Inc., the company has received numerous requests from international schools to develop educational programs that convey Japanese culture. In response to these needs, the Japan Karatedo Federation (JKF) signed a partnership agreement with MIRAI MINDS in March 2026. Focusing on the educational value of Karatedo, a martial art originating in Japan, they began joint development of a new educational program that transcends the boundaries of competition.

Karatedo is a martial art that emphasizes "discipline," "confidence," and "character building." This program aims to provide children with opportunities to grow while experiencing the essence of Japanese culture through practical learning that fosters qualities such as etiquette, concentration, self-reliance, responsibility, and perseverance.

*Full-scale program operation is scheduled to begin in September 2026.

Significance of JKF Developing the Program

In this program, only qualified instructors certified by the JKF will provide instruction, ensuring a safe and highly reliable teaching system. Furthermore, the program design is based on the JKF's competitive rules, which primarily involve "sun-dome" (non-contact) techniques, achieving high safety even in classes for children. The aim is also for this program to encourage more children to continue practicing Karatedo in the future, leading to the popularization of Karatedo as a lifelong martial art and sport.

Program Outline (Pilot Operation Period)

・ Purpose:

To provide children who will interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds in the future with an opportunity to learn about the culture of their home country, Japan. Also, through this cultural experience, to help them acquire social skills.