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

Episode 1: 3 A.M. — Dusting Off a Dream

By a small-school principal with a big heart

Has anyone ever told you that the most frightening kind of failure is not missing the target, but forgetting what you once dreamed of?

On the night of July 1, 2025, at around 3 a.m., the world was completely silent. Everyone was asleep. Everyone—except me. I sat alone in front of my computer, with the sound of crickets outside the window and the Easy Japanese lesson from NHK World playing through my headphones.

“Ohayō gozaimasu!”

Such a simple greeting, yet it made the heart of a school principal race more than any cup of coffee ever could. The world suddenly felt much smaller. With just the internet, someone sitting in a tiny corner of Sa Kaeo could already feel as if his heart had traveled ahead to Tokyo.

The inspiration that kept me awake, studying Japanese in the middle of the night, began with a single sheet of paper about eight years ago. At that time, I was just an ordinary primary school teacher. One day, I happened to notice an official document lying on a desk. It was about an exchange program in Japan—for school principals.

Just seeing the heading was enough. A thought appeared instantly, without hesitation.
I did not want to go there as a tourist.
I wanted to stand there as a school principal.

From that day on, I began to “trade” many things in my life—comfort, energy, and patience. I pursued a bachelor’s degree in English alongside a master’s degree in Educational Administration. I spent more than nine years of my personal time as an international volunteer, learning about people before learning how to lead them.

That dream, born from a single piece of paper, stayed with me all along. I never let it go—not even during the COVID-19 years, when everything seemed to come to a halt. The fire inside never went out.

The day I was informed that I had been selected as one of nine Thai teacher representatives nationwide, chosen by OBEC and ACCU–UNESCO to join an exchange program in Japan, I was honestly overwhelmed with excitement. Not just because I was proud of myself, but because it proved something I had always believed.

The quality of learning is not measured by the size of a school, but by the breadth of a teacher’s vision.

Although I come from Ban Khlong Manao School, a small rural school, this small step of mine represents a strong determination—to bring back Japanese ideas, discipline, and innovation to create sustainable opportunities for the children of Ban Khlong Manao School in Sa Kaeo Province.

Studying Japanese alone in the darkness at three in the morning taught me one important lesson: the hardest step is not the journey to Japan, but the very first step—getting out of bed and taking action.

Now, I am ready. Ready to transform from
“a principal who once only dreamed”
into
“a principal who truly takes action.”

Please keep me, and the other eight Thai teachers, in your thoughts and encouragement. This journey has only just begun.

Episode 2: Day 1

September 30, 2025 – First Steps at Haneda, Embraced by Early Autumn

[6:00 a.m., Haneda Airport, Tokyo]

The moment the airplane wheels touched the runway and the automatic doors of Haneda Airport slowly slid open, the first thing that greeted me was not the sound of people, but a cool breeze brushing gently against my face.

The morning air felt refreshingly crisp, carrying a faint hint of early autumn. I took a deep breath and smiled without realizing it. The soft morning breeze filled my heart with an indescribable warmth. It felt as if Japan was not merely a “destination,” but was quietly welcoming us with calmness and the gentle beauty of nature at dawn.

More Than a Visit: A Mission for Education

Stepping onto the land of the rising sun this time meant far more than just traveling. This journey was part of the
11th International Educational Exchange Program (ACCU).

My fellow Thai delegates and I did not bring only our luggage—we brought expectations and hearts ready to learn.

This program was not simply a study visit. It was an important platform for building cooperation, exchanging perspectives, and expanding educational horizons—an opportunity that is not easily found.

From “Tokyo” Back to “Home”

As we walked through the airport—modern, clean, and remarkably orderly—images of schools back in Thailand quietly surfaced in my mind.

My colleagues and I spoke softly about what awaited us over the next seven days: our excitement, our hopes, and our shared determination to

learn as much as possible
and bring valuable lessons back to develop our homeland.

The first step at Haneda today may be just a small step for us, but for the children waiting back in Thailand, it marks the beginning of something far greater.

Day 1 (Continued): From a Warm Welcome

to an Excitement Hard to Contain

[Morning–Afternoon | Orientation and Discovery]

After our group had settled in, the first mission of the day was to attend the program orientation. The atmosphere in the room was filled with warmth and friendliness, far more than we had expected.

We had the opportunity to meet Mr. Takeshi Miyazawa,
Director of ACCU.
He welcomed us with a sincere smile—the kind of smile that instantly makes you feel,
“Yes, we are in the right place.”

As I listened to him speak about the meaning and importance of this exchange program, my mind drifted for a brief moment, and an unexpected question echoed in my head:

“Wow… have we really come this far?”

From a small desk back in Thailand
to a conference hall in the heart of Tokyo,
a dream that once felt distant
was now becoming clearer and more tangible with every moment.

After that, Ms. Hasumi, an ACCU staff member, escorted us onto a bus to travel to the ACCU Center for the official orientation session.

While sitting on the bus, I began to “experience the real Japan” for the first time. The city was clean, orderly, and the air felt so fresh that you could sense it the moment you took a deep breath.

But the most impressive sight was not the buildings or the roads.
It was the image of an elderly woman quietly and attentively sweeping and collecting trash along the roadside in a public space.

No one was instructing her.
No one was supervising.
Yet everyone simply carried out their role naturally and with care.

I discreetly took out my phone and captured that moment. After getting off the bus, I spoke with my fellow delegates. Everyone had noticed the same scene, and everyone felt the same sense of admiration.

This was my “first impression” of Japan—
a lesson taught without a single word being spoken.

When we arrived at the ACCU Center and concluded the meeting, we were given meal coupons. Our first meal on Japanese soil was simple, yet deeply meaningful, as it represented a warm and friendly welcome from the host to the guests.

A Small Note About ACCU

The Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU) is an international cooperative organization based in Japan that works closely with UNESCO. It plays an important role in promoting mutual understanding, respect for cultural diversity, and educational development across the Asia–Pacific region.

Its work is carried out through exchange programs, cultural cooperation, and initiatives aimed at building a sustainable society. Within the center, there are also exhibitions and learning spaces that are beautiful, simple, and deeply impressive.

The Excitement Called “Aijitsu Elementary School”

The day concluded with a preparatory meeting for our visit to Aijitsu Elementary School.

The meeting title may have sounded formal, but to be completely honest—
my heart was racing like that of a first-grade student about to attend school for the very first day.

I looked through the meeting agenda and the exchange plans, and found myself imagining the smiles of Japanese children, their ways of thinking, their teaching methods, and the atmosphere of their classrooms.

Every minute in that meeting room was not just about listening or taking notes. It was about “absorbing”—through the people, the places, and a certain energy that surrounded us.

That first step, as a school principal, on the land of the rising sun, taught me clearly that—

True learning
does not live only on paper,
but in every step we take
when we open our hearts to something new.

Day 2: October 1, 2025

“Three Years of Pride: From Khlong Manao to Shinjuku”

[07:30 a.m. – A Journey Driven by Heart]

The morning was especially lively. A bus arrived to pick us up at the hotel, with staff members and interpreters providing close support. Everything was systematic, smooth, and well-organized—truly Japan at its best.

Yet what made this morning truly special was not the schedule or the destination. I paused for a moment and smiled quietly.

Today marks exactly three years
since I assumed the role of
Principal of Ban Khlong Manao School.

Three years ago, I stood in a small rural school, committed to developing my hometown step by step. And today, three years later, I found myself standing at Aijitsu Elementary School, in Shinjuku, Tokyo, as a representative of Thailand.

This was an anniversary gift beyond value.

When Friendship Begins with the First Step

The warmth of the morning began with the welcome from Ms. Mutsuko Mizuno, Principal of the school. She greeted us with kindness and a gentle smile. What deeply touched all of us was her choice to wear traditional Thai attire to welcome the delegation from Thailand.

The school had also prepared welcome and congratulatory signs at the entrance. These small details reflected genuine care, respect, and a sincere commitment to friendship.

For me, this was not just a formal welcome—it was a welcome from the heart, one that made us feel we were not guests, but educational partners.

When Thai Culture Comes Alive in a Japanese Classroom

The morning activities were filled with energy and smiles. This time, it was not just me, but Team A, working together to design and deliver a Thai cultural exchange program for Japanese students and teachers.

We introduced Songkran, the Thai New Year, explaining its meaning, the importance of family, respect, and community warmth. Laughter filled the classroom as students joined us in traditional Thai dance, eagerly learning new movements and expressing genuine excitement.

As a symbol of friendship, we presented traditional floral garlands and floral-patterned shirts as gifts from Thailand. Although we were unable to share photos of the students due to school policy, the memories and emotions of that day remain vivid in our hearts.

Understanding Aijitsu Elementary School More Deeply

Spending time with the students allowed me to see the school through a deeper lens—as an educational leader. With a history of over 145 years, the school preserves its Edo-era cultural identity, despite being located in the heart of a major city.

The current building, constructed about nine years ago, features a basement and four above-ground floors, equipped with modern facilities—from a swimming pool above the gymnasium to full climate-control systems throughout the building.

The school places strong emphasis on foreign language learning, particularly English, encouraging students to confidently use the vocabulary they already possess.

Afternoon Session: English in a Culturally Diverse World

In the afternoon, I returned to my role as an administrator, participating in a discussion titled
“English Language Teaching in Culturally Diverse Contexts.”

The exchange went beyond teaching techniques, delving into cultural roots that shape language learning. It reinforced my belief that language education is not just about vocabulary or grammar, but about helping students understand the world, understand others, and coexist beautifully amid differences.

A Meaningful Day Concludes

Today was not merely about listening or taking notes—it was about doing, learning, and truly feeling.

I am proud to stand here on behalf of Thailand, and even prouder to witness that
a small step from a rural school has now built meaningful friendships on the global stage.

This third anniversary at Khlong Manao…
is one I will never forget.

Day 3: October 2, 2025

Educational Visit and Exchange at Bunkyo Junior High School

[Morning – From a hotel breakfast to an educational exchange at the lower secondary level]

The morning began simply.
We had breakfast together at the hotel—
Japanese-style dishes that appeared light,
yet rich in quality.
Fresh ingredients, balanced flavors,
and great attention to detail.

The result?
Plenty of energy—
though my suit felt a bit tighter than usual
As the saying goes,
“Still handsome as ever, just a little more snug.”

After breakfast,
we boarded the bus
and headed straight to
Bunkyo Junior High School.

Today was not merely a study visit.
It was a great honor for me
to serve as the official representative of the Thai delegation,
delivering a formal greeting
to build friendship and goodwill
between our schools
and a Japanese lower secondary school.

---

Day 3: When the Heart of Japanese Education

Is as Refined as “Omakase”

October 3, 2025

Serving as the Thai Representative at Bunkyo Junior High School

As we entered the school,
we were welcomed by an atmosphere of order,
politeness,
and the warm hospitality characteristic of Japan.

I stood there
as a school principal from rural Thailand,
yet speaking on behalf of
the entire Thai delegation.

With heartfelt pride,
I delivered a greeting
to the administrators, teachers, and students.

---

Greeting Message to Build Friendship

Distinguished administrators,
teachers,
and students of Bunkyo Junior High School,

My name is Mr. Wichai Nontakan,
Principal of Ban Khlong Manao School,
Sa Kaeo Province, Thailand,
and I stand before you today
on behalf of the Thai delegation.

I am truly honored and delighted
to have this opportunity
to express my sincere gratitude
for the warm and gracious welcome
you have extended to us
from the very first moment of our arrival.

This wonderful reception
has not only left a deep impression on us,
but also reflects
the spirit of friendship, kindness,
and genuine goodwill—
the essential foundation
of meaningful educational and cultural exchange.

I firmly believe that
today’s meeting is not merely a temporary occasion,
but the beginning of a meaningful
and sustainable collaboration.
It will lead to shared learning,
mutual understanding,
and stronger bonds
between our schools
and Bunkyo Junior High School.

On behalf of the Thai delegation,
I would like to once again
express our heartfelt appreciation
for your warm hospitality today.
We sincerely hope that
this relationship will continue to grow,
strengthen,
and move forward together in a sustainable way.

Thank you very much.

---

After the Greeting

As I finished my remarks,
I saw warm smiles,
attentive eyes,
and gracious responses from everyone present.

At that moment,
even though my suit felt tighter than usual,
my heart felt light and at ease.

---

Learning Activities Throughout the Day

Following the welcoming ceremony,
we participated in a full day of activities, including:

• An introduction to the school and its educational philosophy

• Classroom observations of actual lessons

• A guided tour of the school environment and systems

• Cultural activities conducted by Thai teachers

• Lunch shared with students

• Q&A and interaction sessions with students

• Professional exchange between Thai and Japanese teachers

• Presentation of commemorative gifts

• Visits to club activities

• Observation of evening classes

Each activity was not merely something to observe,
but an opportunity to learn through direct experience.

---

Educational Philosophy of Bunkyo Junior High School

Bunkyo Junior High School has a clear vision for student development.
The school aims to nurture students who:

• Possess a generous and caring heart

• Can think and learn independently

• Lead healthy and safe lives

• Contribute positively to society

Under the concept of “Team Bunkyo Junior High School,”
the school emphasizes teamwork across the entire system.

Teaching and learning are supported through
small-group instruction,
individualized learning,
and peer-to-peer learning,
particularly in mathematics and English.

All classrooms are equipped with ICT devices,
and every student is provided with a tablet
to support learning in the digital era.

Another distinctive feature
is the evening class program,
which promotes understanding of diversity
and encourages students
to view the world from a broader, global perspective.

---

Reflections from the Day

Today reminded me once again
that quality education
is not created by buildings or technology alone.

It is built upon
a clear vision,
a system that works collaboratively,
and genuine trust in the potential of every child.

Even though my suit felt tight,
my perspective grew wider than ever before.

This is the true value
of educational exchange—
not found only in documents,
but in meeting, speaking, and truly feeling together.

Day 3 (Evening):

The Lights of Shibuya and the Friendship of “Eight Souls” That Never Sleep

[After-hours mission – Heading to Shibuya!]

After completing a full and intensive day of educational activities,
my team and I—eight souls in total—decided to switch modes
from educators to urban explorers in the heart of Tokyo.

Our destination could only be one place: Shibuya—
the vibrant center of energy and movement
that everyone who visits Japan must experience at least once.

---

A Lesson in Loyalty from “Hachiko”

Our first stop was to greet the famous statue of Hachiko Statue,
the legendary loyal dog known around the world.

Standing there for a commemorative photo,
I found myself reflecting on the meaning of loyalty
and the power of fulfilling one’s duty with consistency.

Hachiko’s story continues to pass on warmth and inspiration,
reminding us that faithfulness and devotion
still matter—
even more than a century later.

---

Shibuya Scramble: Grandeur in the Middle of Chaos

From there, we walked toward another iconic highlight—
the Shibuya Scramble Crossing,
often called the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.

The moment the traffic lights turned green,
thousands of people flowed across the intersection
from every direction at once.

It was a breathtaking sight—
seemingly chaotic,
yet mysteriously organized in its own unique rhythm.

---

Small Joys of an Eight-Person Team

That night in Shibuya,
for me, was not just about neon lights, streets, or shopping.

It was about small joys after a long day of hard work—
moments shared together.

The smiles and laughter of our eight teammates
amid the glowing lights of Tokyo
became a source of renewed energy,
preparing us for the missions that awaited us the next day.

---

Shibuya tonight…
was more beautiful
and more meaningful
than ever before.

Day 4: Looking Toward the Future Through an Academic Lens

And Touching the Spirit of History in Tokyo

October 4, 2025

After the vibrant lights and energy of Shibuya the night before,
this morning our group of ten participants
woke up with renewed excitement
to head to Tokyo Gakugei University,
an institution often regarded as the heart of teacher education in Japan,
as part of the ACCU exchange program.

---

A Personal Moment: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

To be honest,
the moment I stepped into the lecture hall of a Japanese university,
my heart began to race.

This was not just a study visit.
It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment—
a school principal from rural Thailand
sitting in a prestigious Japanese university,
not as a visitor,
but as a learner.

I felt excited, grateful, proud,
and deeply moved
by the opportunity life had given me that day.

Although we came to Japan under an international exchange program,
for me, this experience carried a much deeper meaning.
It was one of the most important opportunities
in my life as an educator.

Amid that excitement,
a quiet thought crossed my mind.

If, earlier in life,
I had possessed more knowledge,
more ability,
or if someone had guided me along this path sooner,
perhaps I could have gone even further—
perhaps I might have had the chance
to study at a renowned university like this
as a full-time student.

Yet instead of regret,
that thought made me smile.

Because today,
even in a different role,
I was still able to sit and learn
in a place that once existed only as a dream.

It reminded me clearly that
it is never too late to learn,
as long as the heart still dreams
and still seeks growth—
especially for the future of the children
we are responsible for.

---

Morning Session: When the Future Begins With a Question

The morning session was so engaging
that I found myself unable to sit still.

We were honored to learn from
Professor Iwata Yasuyuki, Ph.D.,
a world-renowned expert in teacher education,
who delivered a lecture entitled:

“Reconsideration on Teacher for Future from Japanese Experience”

With just one opening question,
the entire room fell silent:

“How should we prepare teachers
for students living 40–50 years from now?”

Professor Iwata emphasized that
the world is changing faster
than any textbook can keep up with.
Future societies will demand far more
than subject-based knowledge alone.

The role of teachers, therefore,
is no longer limited to transmitting information.
Teachers must be able to adapt,
to question,
and to learn alongside their students
in a world where answers are not yet known.

---

A Lesson I Took to Heart

One idea from the lecture became crystal clear:

Teachers are not just instructors—
they are lifelong learners.

Professional growth does not end
with a leadership position or a title.
It requires constant self-reflection—
asking whether what we do today
will still serve our students
decades into the future.

That morning’s lesson became a compass for me,
one I am determined to bring back
to Ban Khlong Manao School,
to help prepare our students
for the world they will face
half a century from now.

---

Afternoon Session: Touching the Roots of Asia

At Tokyo National Museum

After nourishing our minds with visions of the future,
the afternoon took us in the opposite direction—
back to the roots of the past
at the Tokyo National Museum.

Founded in 1872,
this is the oldest museum in Japan
and houses more than 110,000 cultural artifacts.

We explored traditional Japanese artworks,
pottery,
and historical treasures from across Asia—
many of which are rarely seen elsewhere.

---

When Past, Present, and Future Converge

Standing among artifacts
that have endured for thousands of years,
only hours after discussing education
40–50 years into the future,
was a profound experience.

It reminded me that educational development
is not about moving forward blindly,
but about progressing without forgetting our roots.

In that moment—
surrounded by patience, craftsmanship,
and wisdom preserved through generations—
I quietly thought to myself:

その瞬間はまさにミラクル
That moment was truly a miracle.

---

Reflections on Day 4

Today taught me that
true education emerges
when the past, present, and future
can engage in dialogue.

In the morning,
we spoke of teachers fifty years ahead.
In the afternoon,
we walked through centuries of history.

And standing between those two worlds
is the role of educators—
to connect them meaningfully.

Day 4 was not merely a day of learning.
It was a day when my heart felt
calmer, deeper, and clearer than ever before.

Day 5:

Sa Kaeo’s Pha Khao Ma, Cross-Border Friendship,

and the Heart of “Schools for Everyone”

October 4, 2025 | at JICA Global Plaza

Today was a day when my heart felt truly full—with pride and gratitude.
I had the opportunity to take part in a discussion that was both challenging and deeply meaningful for the future of global education:
“Inclusive Schools—Creating Learning Spaces for Everyone.”

This forum brought together Thai and Japanese educators
(日タイの教師交流)
to sit in a circle, open their hearts, and exchange visions with sincerity—
in an atmosphere of respect, understanding, and shared purpose.

---

Pha Khao Ma from Sa Kaeo:

A Symbol of Friendship from the Heart

One of the most meaningful moments of the day for me
was the honor of representing Thailand
by presenting a Pha Khao Ma (traditional Thai cloth)—an OTOP product from Sa Kaeo Province—
to Kuribayashi Tadashi,
Director of the Educational Exchange Division at ACCU.

This cloth may appear simple,
but to me, it represents my hometown,
our way of life,
and the sincere heart of a teacher from rural Thailand.

At the moment of presentation,
I felt deeply proud
to bring a piece of Sa Kaeo
to a global stage
and see it create genuine smiles.

タイの伝統的な布「パーカオマー」を贈呈できて、とても光栄に思います。
(I feel truly honored to present Thailand’s traditional cloth today.)

---

Lessons from Japanese Teachers to Thai Teachers

Beyond symbolic exchange,
the academic dialogue itself was rich and inspiring.

I had the opportunity to listen to thoughtful and insightful perspectives
from Kiichi Oyasu,
Director of the Education Corporations Department at ACCU,
as well as to engage in discussions with Japanese principals and teachers
(日本の校長先生と先生方).

What struck me most
was the careful attention given to each individual student
and the deep commitment to building
“schools for everyone,”
embracing learners of all backgrounds and differences.

This was not merely a concept on paper—
it was a philosophy brought to life
through genuine care and dedication.

---

Borderless Joy: Thai Attire Meets Yukata

After an intellectually engaging session,
it was time to celebrate culture.

Our Thai team introduced elements of Thai culture
(タイ文化の紹介),
filling the room with smiles and laughter.

The most delightful surprise, however,
was a cultural exchange through traditional attire
with Nozomu Ito,
an elementary school teacher from Gifu.

Standing side by side—
me in traditional Thai clothing
and Mr. Ito in a Yukata—
created a moment that was joyful, warm,
and beautifully symbolic of cross-border friendship.

---

Reflections on Day 5

Today reminded me that when
the power of education
meets
friendship beyond borders,

it creates small ripples
that grow into meaningful and lasting impact
for children everywhere.

Day 5 was not just another exchange activity—
it was a reaffirmation that
the world becomes a better place
when we truly believe in
“Schools for Everyone.”

A Rainy Day Story in Tokyo — at Ochanomizu

After completing my work for the day,
I had an appointment with a friend from a different generation—Takashi Fukuda—
an online friend I have known for more than ten years.
He is the same person who once planned to join a volunteer project I was involved in a decade ago.

What began as a simple coincidence back then
eventually became a real meeting today—
as if fate had quietly arranged it all along.

I was staying at Ochanomizu Hotel Juraku,
located near Shin-Ochanomizu Station.
The neighborhood felt calm and slightly nostalgic,
with rain gently falling and damp streets reflecting a quiet, classic Tokyo charm.

Takashi came to pick me up at the hotel,
and we walked together to a small Japanese restaurant called Akebi no Mi,
not far from the station.

The restaurant was small but warmly inviting.
Inside, the gentle aroma of dashi and soy sauce filled the air,
bringing a comforting feeling—
as if we had stepped back into an earlier era of Japan.

That day, I was dressed in slacks and a white shirt,
holding an umbrella in hand—
almost like a Tokyo gentleman myself.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do, after all

We sat at a small table by the window,
watching the soft rain fall outside,
while authentic Japanese dishes were carefully laid out before us—
fresh sashimi, classic sushi, and a bowl of fragrant miso soup

Takashi suggested we try Suntory The Premium Malt’s
(サントリー・ザ・プレミアム・モルツ),
a premium Japanese beer known for its smooth taste.
I don’t usually drink much,
but out of friendship and respect for our long connection,
I enjoyed a modest glass—
just enough to warm the atmosphere

Over the meal, we talked endlessly—
about life, work, and the idea of Ikigai (いきがい),
the reason for living a meaningful life.
Takashi even introduced me to using AI to create anime-style illustrations (アニメ) of ourselves.
The results were so charming
that we couldn’t stop laughing together.

Before leaving, Takashi went to pay at the counter.
While I was waiting, a Japanese gentleman politely asked me,
“タイの方ですか？” (Are you Thai?)
I replied, “はい、タイ人です。”
He smiled warmly and said, “สวัสดีครับ.”
We chatted briefly—
he shared that he had visited Thailand before and loved Thai food.

That day was ordinary, yet special—
a day that felt like a scene from a Japanese film:
gentle rain, quiet warmth, simplicity, and deep meaning ??

Even though it was only a fleeting moment of happiness,
it became a memory I will cherish forever.

Some friendships begin in the online world…
and one day, fate will gently guide them
to meet in the real world

Day 6:

A Reflection on “Small Steps, Great Impact”

From the Heart of Tokyo to Ban Khlong Manao School

October 5, 2025 | at ACCU Tokyo Office

On the final morning of our journey,
we walked together from our accommodation
to the ACCU office in the heart of Tokyo
to take part in the reflection session of the program.

The atmosphere was filled with emotion.
As I looked back from the first day until this very moment,
I realized that this experience
had become a chapter of history
etched deeply into my heart—
one I will carry with me for a lifetime.

---

When a Dream Becomes Reality on the Global Stage

This small step onto the global educational stage
has been one of the greatest joys of my life—
a moment when a long-held dream finally became reality.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude
to the Ministry of Education of Thailand
and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)
for granting me this invaluable opportunity
in my role as Principal of Ban Khlong Manao School,
under the Office of Sa Kaeo Primary Educational Service Area 2.

Being selected as a representative of Thailand
to participate in
The 11th International Educational Exchange Program in Japan,
supported by ACCU,
the Government of Japan, and UNESCO,
was not merely a study visit.

It was an opening of doors—
an invitation to see the wider world,
so that its light could be carried back
to strengthen my home community.

---

Energy and Inspiration for a “Small School with a Big Heart”

Throughout this journey,
I gained profound insights into
a disciplined education system,
advanced educational technologies,
teacher development for the next 50 years,
and—most importantly—
friendships beyond borders.

All of these experiences
will become a powerful source of energy
as I return home
to further develop our
“small school with a big heart”
toward sustainable growth.

---

A Grateful Heart, Moving Forward

Thank you to every institution,
every supporter,
and every encouraging voice
that transformed my small steps
into a meaningful stride
on the path of Thai educators toward the global stage.

Tokyo—
thank you for the priceless lessons.

Ban Khlong Manao—
I am on my way back,
carrying a heart full of inspiration
for our children.

Farewell to Tokyo:

From Faith in Asakusa to a Promise — “See You in Thailand”

[Afternoon – The Timeless Charm of Asakusa]

Before our journey came to an end,
I had the opportunity to visit Senso-ji Temple,
one of Tokyo’s most iconic and sacred landmarks—
a place that many visitors to Japan hope to experience at least once in their lifetime.

The moment I stood before Kaminarimon Gate,
beneath the giant red lantern that symbolizes the temple,
I felt the presence of deep faith
and the breath of Japanese culture
that has been passed down through generations.

A brief note on Asakusa:
Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo,
founded in 628 AD.
For centuries, it has been the spiritual heart of the city—
not merely a tourist attraction,
but a place where people come to pray
for life, work, health,
and new beginnings.

Walking along Nakamise Street,
surrounded by people from all over the world,
in the atmosphere of Tokyo’s old town,
I felt an unexpected sense of calm.

It was a moment to reflect—
on the excitement, challenges, friendships,
and life lessons of this journey.
As if Asakusa gently invited me
to pause… and listen to my own heart once more.

---

A Dinner of Friendship:

Gratitude to Those Who Cared for Our Journey

That evening was especially warm and memorable.

My team and I shared dinner with Yarika and Harika,
staff members from ACCU,
who had taken such thoughtful care of us,
attending to every detail
from the first day to the last.

Around the dinner table,
there was laughter,
smiles,
and heartfelt gratitude.

I thanked them sincerely
for their friendship, dedication,
and the beautiful memories
that will stay with me for a long time.

Before we parted,
I left them with a small promise, spoken with a smile:

「次はタイでね！」
(Tsugi wa Tai de ne!)
“Next time, let’s meet in Thailand.”

A simple sentence,
yet filled with meaning—
and the hope of meeting again,
this time in my home country.

---

Journey Reflections

This journey in Tokyo gave me more
than educational knowledge
or international experience.

It gave me friendship without borders,
faith that connects past and present,
and inspiration
that I will carry back
to my students
and Ban Khlong Manao School.

Thank you, Tokyo.
Thank you to everyone who walked this path with me.
And thank you to every heart
that made this journey
one of the most beautiful chapters
in my life.