From a Small School to the Global Stage (2025) : A Major Step on Japan’s Educational Journey

This message

 Episode 1: 3:00 AM – Dusting Off a Dream and the Glow of a Blue Screen

By: A Principal with a Small School and a Big Heart

They say, "The most dangerous kind of failure is forgetting that you once had a dream."

July 1, 2025 While the rest of the world is deep in sleep at 3:00 AM, I am wide awake, staring at my computer screen in the absolute silence. My only companions are the crickets outside and the melodic voice from NHK World Japan’s “Easy Japanese” flowing through my headphones.

“Ohayou Gozaimasu!” This simple greeting makes my heart race faster than any double shot of espresso could. It’s incredible how small the world has become. With just an internet connection, a principal from a small rural corner in Sa Kaeo, Thailand, can transport his soul to the streets of Tokyo in an instant.

The Single Sheet of Paper That Changed My Life

Believe it or not, the inspiration driving me to sacrifice sleep and learn Japanese today started with a "single piece of paper" eight years ago.

Back then, I was just a primary school teacher. I happened to see an official document on a desk—it was about an exchange program to Japan for school directors. At that moment, as I stared at those words, a fire ignited within me.

"I don't just want to visit as a tourist... I want to stand there as a School Director!"

That was the turning point. I decided to "trade" my comfort for a decade of relentless preparation:

• I pursued a Bachelor’s in English (STOU) alongside a Master’s in Educational Administration.

• I spent over 9 years as an international volunteer, learning to "understand humanity" before I stepped up to "manage people."

I kept that dream tucked away in my heart, never letting it go, never forgetting it. Even when the pandemic brought the world to a standstill, the light of my ambition never flickered.

“Small School” on the “Global Stage”

Finally, the long-awaited day arrived. I was officially selected as one of the nine representatives from Thailand by OBEC and ACCU-UNESCO to participate in this prestigious exchange program in Japan.

For me, this selection isn't just a personal achievement; it’s proof that:

“The quality of learning doesn’t depend on the size of the school, but on the breadth of the educator's vision.”

Coming from Banklongmanao School, a small rural institution, my step today is a commitment to bring back Japanese innovation and their world-class discipline to create “sustainable opportunities” for my students in Sa Kaeo.

3 AM Reflections

Sitting alone in the dark, practicing Japanese, has taught me one vital lesson: “The hardest step isn't the flight to Japan; it’s the first step of deciding to get out of bed and take action.”

I am ready. Ready to transform from a "Principal who dreamed" into a "Principal who acts" in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Please join me on this journey and support our team of nine Thai educators!

Day 1 – First Steps at Haneda and the Autumn Breeze

September 30, 2025 – 06:00 AM at Haneda Airport, Tokyo

The moment the airport doors slid open, it wasn't the city's hustle and bustle that greeted me, but a gentle, cool breeze. The air was crisp, carrying the unmistakable scent of early autumn, and it felt like a refreshing embrace for my soul. I couldn't help but smile; it felt as though Japan was waving its hand in a warm, morning welcome, showcasing its natural beauty at dawn.

Beyond a Visit: A Mission for Education Stepping onto Japanese soil today carries profound significance. I am here as part of the 11th International Educational Exchange Program (ACCU), a platform designed to foster cooperation and broaden educational horizons.

My colleagues from Thailand and I share the same spark of excitement. We are here not just to observe, but to engage, to exchange, and to immerse ourselves in a world-class learning environment.

From Tokyo Back to Our Roots As I walk through the pristine terminals of Haneda, my thoughts constantly drift back to my school and my students in Thailand. Our mission is clear: to absorb every valuable lesson and innovation, then carry those treasures back to develop our homeland.

This first step at Haneda today is the beginning of a journey that will ultimately bring a brighter future to the classrooms back home.

The Warm Welcome and the Thrill of Day 1

[Morning & Afternoon – Orientation & Exploration]

Our official journey began with an orientation that was as warm as it was inspiring. Meeting Mr. Takeshi Miyazawa, the Director of ACCU, was a true honor. As I listened to his welcoming remarks, I found myself in a daze for a moment, thinking, “Wow, I’ve really made it this far!” It felt surreal to realize that a dream nurtured from afar had finally brought me to the heart of Tokyo.

We then took a study tour around the city. To be honest, every corner of Tokyo is a marvel. Whether it’s the seamless urban planning or the impeccable public discipline, Japan began teaching us valuable lessons the moment we stepped onto the streets.

The Inner Child: Preparing for Aijitsu Elementary School

The day concluded with a preparatory meeting for our upcoming visit to Aijitsu Elementary School. On paper, it sounded like a formal administrative session, but inside, I felt like a young student on the night before his first day of school!

Listening to the exchange plans and envisioning the interaction with Japanese students and teachers made my heart race with excitement. This isn't just about taking notes in a conference room; it’s about "immersion"—learning through the people, the places, and the very air we breathe here.

This first day has taught me one thing: real education isn't found in textbooks; it’s found in every step we take when we open our hearts to the world.

Shinjuku Nights and the First Train Ride in Tokyo

[The Night Mission – The Colors of Shinjuku]

After wrapping up our formal sessions at ACCU, our team switched to "Exploration Mode!" We headed straight to Shinjuku to hunt for delicious food and witness the legendary neon lights that never dim.

One of the big highlights for me was riding a Tokyo train for the very first time! To be honest, I was buzzing with excitement. Navigating one of the world’s most complex rail systems was like a mini-adventure. Everything from reading the maps to the orderly queues was a fascinating lesson in Japanese efficiency.

"Laughter is the Best Seasoning" Tonight's dinner wasn't just about the food; it was about the connection. Shinjuku was dazzling, but what truly made the night was the team. We laughed so much (いっぱい笑ったよ！), shared stories, and really got to know each other.

I realized tonight that 仲間と一緒だから最高！ (Having these teammates makes everything the best!). This exchange isn't just about studying Japanese education; it’s about building a bond with fellow educators who share the same passion.

My first day, which started with the autumn breeze at Haneda, ended with laughter and lights in Shinjuku. Tomorrow, the mission at Aijitsu Elementary begins, and I’m more than ready!

Day 2 – 3rd Anniversary: From Ban Khlong Manow to Shinjuku

October 1, 2025

A Milestone Journey Today marks a very special milestone for me—the 3rd Anniversary of my appointment as the School Director of Ban Khlong Manow School. Three years of developing my hometown have led me to this incredible moment: standing as a representative of Thailand at Aijitsu Elementary School in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Thai Culture Meets Japanese Art The morning was vibrant with cultural exchange. I had the honor of teaching Thai culture to Japanese students, seeing their eyes light up with curiosity. We also participated in a traditional Edo Woodblock Print Fan workshop together. Sharing a meal with the students during lunchtime was the highlight—proof that joy and kindness need no translation.

Bridging Cultures through English Education In the afternoon, under the ACCU Teachers’ Invitation Program, I joined a session on "English Education: Understanding Cross-Cultural Differences." We explored the "why" behind our different approaches to teaching. This fresh perspective is a treasure I can’t wait to bring back to enhance the English curriculum at our school.

It has been a day filled with meaning, pride, and the realization that no matter how small our school is, our vision can span the globe.

Dressed to Impress... But Fed to Excess!

A Stylish Morning (With a Tight Fit!) I started my day today feeling quite dapper! I made sure to dress in my finest suit to represent Thailand with style as we visited the schools. But there was one thing I didn't account for: The incredible Japanese school food!

The food was so delicious that I simply couldn't resist. By the time I finished, I realized my suit was feeling a bit... snugger than it was this morning! 555. I guess you could say I was "Dressed to impress, but fed to excess!"

The Joy of a Shared Meal Beyond the laughs about my tight suit, sharing these meals with Japanese teachers and students was a highlight. It reaffirmed my belief that good food brings people together faster than words ever could. Even if I had to walk around Banka Junior High School with a very full stomach, it was a stomach full of happiness and great memories.

Day 3 – Education as Refined as Omakase

October 3, 2025

After a hearty breakfast that made my suit feel a bit "snug" (555), our delegation headed to Bunka Junior High School. To me, this place isn't just a school; it’s a living "Educational Laboratory."

Premium Lessons in Small Groups I was most impressed by their Small Group Instruction. I compared it to premium Japanese cuisine—served in small portions but of the highest quality. Teachers here can provide thorough attention to every student. Technology is used meaningfully, with tablets and digital boards integrated into daily learning. Most importantly, their goal of nurturing "Beautiful Hearts, Self-Directed Learners, and Resilient Lives" resonates deeply with my vision for Ban Khlong Manow School.

A Message of Friendship I had the honor of speaking on behalf of the Thai delegation to express our gratitude to our hosts. I shared that:

"This beautiful reception reflects a sincere friendship that is the foundation of our exchange. I am confident that today is not just a passing event, but the beginning of a lasting collaboration and a strengthened bond between our schools."

Discipline You Can Feel While privacy rules meant I couldn't take photos of the students, the cleanliness and discipline were breathtaking. The entire program, from classroom observations to the school tour, was executed with perfect Japanese precision.

Lunch and Leadership Bond The highlight was sharing lunch with the students, witnessing their simple and sincere lifestyle. I was deeply honored to meet Mr. Endo Yuichi, the Principal of Bunka Junior High School. Sharing ideas and taking a photo together as "fellow educators" was a moment of true professional pride.

Today was exceptionally rewarding. I’m returning with a heart full of inspiration, ready to elevate our small school to a global standard.

Shibuya Nights – 8 Hearts, One Vibrant City

The Post-Mission Adventure After a productive day of work, our team of eight headed into the heart of Tokyo’s energy: Shibuya. A place that truly never sleeps.

A Tribute to Loyalty Our first stop was to pay respects to the Hachiko Statue. Standing there and hearing the legendary tale of this faithful dog always warms the heart. It’s a timeless reminder of loyalty that has resonated for over a century.

The Shibuya Scramble Then came the ultimate Tokyo experience—the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Watching thousands of people stream across the intersection from every direction the moment the light turns green is a spectacle beyond words. It’s chaotic yet impressively organized.

A Small Joy After Hard Work That night in Shibuya wasn't just about the lights and the sights; it was about the shared joy of our 8-member team. After a long day of focus and learning, these moments of laughter and exploration are what bond us together. Shibuya wasn't just a destination tonight—it was the perfect reward for our hard work.

Day 4 – Shaping the Future, Honoring the Past

October 4, 2025

Morning: Teachers for the Next Half-Century Our team of ten visited Tokyo Gakugei University for a profound lecture by Professor Iwata Yasuyuki, Ph.D. on "Reconsideration on Teacher for Future from Japanese Experience." The core takeaway was visionary: How do we prepare educators for students 40–50 years from now? I realized that being a leader in education means being a Life-long Learner. I intend to bring this "compass" back to Ban Khlong Manow School to ensure our classrooms are truly future-ready.

Afternoon: A Journey Through Time at Tokyo National Museum In the afternoon, we transitioned from the future to the ancient past at the Tokyo National Museum (東京国立博物館). Established in 1872, it houses over 110,000 cultural treasures. Listening to experts and seeing the intricate Japanese art and Asian artifacts was a soul-stirring experience. Standing at the intersection of future vision and ancient history was truly magical—“その瞬間はまさに ミラクル” (That moment was truly a miracle) ??

Day 5 – Sakaeo Pride, Global Friendships, and Inclusive Hearts

October 4, 2025 at JICA Global Plaza, Tokyo

Today was a day of profound pride and inspiration. I participated in a seminar titled “Inclusive Schools: New Learning for Education Administrators in the New Age.” It was a powerful platform where Thai and Japanese educators (日タイの教師交流) exchanged ideas on creating schools that truly leave no one behind.

Sakaeo’s Gift to the World The most memorable moment for me was presenting a Sakaeo OTOP “Pha Khao Ma” (traditional Thai loincloth) to Mr. Kuribayashi Tadashi, Director of International Educational Exchange at ACCU. Being a small representative of Thailand, sharing my hometown’s heritage to build international ties was a truly honorable moment.

Insights into Inclusive Education I gained deep insights from Mr. Kiichi Oyasu of ACCU and engaged in meaningful dialogues with various Japanese principals and teachers (日本の校長先生と先生方). I learned that their dedication to "Schools for Everyone" is rooted in meticulous care for individual students and a genuine "Teacher's Heart."

Cultural Harmony: Thai Dress Meets Yukata The day ended with vibrant cultural sharing (タイ文化の紹介). The highlight of our cultural exchange was with Mr. Nozomu Ito, an elementary school teacher from Gifu. We shared a fun and memorable moment exchanging our traditional styles—Thai attire and the Japanese Yukata. It was a joyful bridge between our two cultures.

Today reaffirmed that "The Power of Education" combined with "Cross-Border Friendship" creates a lasting impact that will stay in my heart forever.

 A Rainy Day in Ochanomizu – A 10-Year Friendship Unfolds

[A Cinematic Moment in Tokyo] After finishing my duties, I had a very special appointment with a long-time online friend of over 10 years, Mr. Takashi Fukuda. He was someone who intended to join my Free Volunteer Project a decade ago. Today, fate finally brought us together in person.

Shin-Ochanomizu felt classic and charming today, with streets dampened by a light drizzle. Dressed in slacks and a white shirt with an umbrella in hand, I felt like a local Tokyoite, blending perfectly into the city's vibe.

Warmth at "Akebi no Mi" We dined at a cozy restaurant called Akebi no Mi. Sitting by the window, watching the rain while enjoying fresh sashimi and authentic sushi was surreal. We shared a glass of Suntory The Premium Malt’s to celebrate our long-standing friendship. Our conversation drifted from life and work to the concept of Ikigai—finding meaning in every day. We even laughed uncontrollably while using AI to turn our photos into anime characters.

A Heartwarming Encounter As we were leaving, a Japanese gentleman approached me and asked, “タイの方ですか？” (Are you Thai?). When I confirmed, he smiled and said “Sawasdee Krub” (Hello) in Thai. He shared his love for Thailand and its food. It was a small, beautiful moment that made the rainy Tokyo night feel incredibly warm.

Some friendships begin online, but destiny eventually brings them to life. This ordinary yet extraordinary day felt like a scene from a Japanese movie—simple, warm, and deeply meaningful.

Day 6 – A Grand Finale: From Tokyo’s Heart to Ban Khlong Manow

October 5, 2025 at ACCU Tokyo Office

On our final day, we walked to the ACCU Tokyo Office for our final reflection. This journey, themed "A Small Step, A Global Reach," has been a dream come true—a chapter of my history that I will cherish forever.

My sincerest thanks to the Thai Ministry of Education and MEXT (Japan) for granting me, as the Director of Ban Khlong Manow School, this prestigious opportunity. Representing Thailand in the 11th International Educational Exchange Program, organized by ACCU, the Japanese Government, and UNESCO, has been a life-changing experience.

I return home with a deep understanding of Japanese education, teacher development, and invaluable international friendships. This knowledge will be the fuel to empower our "Small School with a Big Heart," ensuring it grows sustainably and reaches global standards.

Thank you for every bit of support. My small step has truly become a giant leap for a Thai educator on the world stage.

Farewell Tokyo – Faith, Friendship, and a Promise to Meet Again

Final Moments at Senso-ji Before heading home, I visited the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. The air was thick with tradition and faith. Walking through the historic grounds gave me a moment of peace to reflect on the incredible journey I've had in Japan.

A Heartfelt Dinner The evening was dedicated to the people who made this trip seamless. We had a farewell dinner with Ms. Yarika and Ms. Harika from ACCU. They have been our guardians and friends throughout this program. I expressed my deepest gratitude for their kindness and shared a hopeful promise:

"Tsugi wa Tai de ne!" (Next time, let’s meet in Thailand!)

Thank you, Tokyo, for the wisdom and the wonderful friendships. See you again soon!

#Sensoji #Asakusa #ACCU2025 #FriendshipWithoutBorders #NextTimeInThailand #DirectorDiary #JapanMemories