From July 15 to 23, 2026, ten Grade 11 students in the IB Course participated in an eight-night, nine-day environmental field study program on Chichijima in the Ogasawara Islands. This special program, now in its sixth year, is offered as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) curriculum.

On Chichijima, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, students took part in hands-on conservation activities in cooperation with the Ogasawara Marine Center. Their work included protecting sea turtle eggs, cleaning sea turtle tanks, and maintaining turtle shells. This year, students were also fortunate enough to witness the unforgettable moment when a sea turtle came ashore to lay her eggs. Quietly observing this remarkable event, they experienced the wonder of life and gained a renewed appreciation for the importance of protecting the natural environment.

Students also explored the unique natural environment and culture of the Ogasawara Islands through activities such as nature observation on Minamijima, dolphin watching, planting native tree species, learning at the World Heritage Center, creating traditional crafts using pandanus leaves, and stargazing beneath the island's spectacular night sky.

Throughout the program, students demonstrated an exceptional eagerness to learn. At the World Heritage Center, they did far more than simply view the exhibits—they actively engaged with staff from Japan's Ministry of the Environment, asking thoughtful questions about endemic species and invasive species management. At the Marine Center, conversations with researchers and volunteers from across Japan gave students valuable insight into the dedication of those working on the front lines of environmental conservation. These experiences inspired them to reflect seriously on what each of them could do to help protect the natural world.

What students encountered on Chichijima was not only extraordinary nature but also the warmth and generosity of the island's people. Staff at the accommodations, members of the Marine Center, dolphin-watching captains and guides, and members of the pandanus craft association all welcomed the students with genuine kindness. Through these interactions, students came to realize that protecting nature also means valuing and nurturing connections with people.

On the final day, many island residents gathered at the harbor to see the students off. In Ogasawara, people do not say "goodbye"; instead, they say "Itterasshai" ("See you again" or "Have a safe journey"), expressing the hope that visitors will one day return. Moved by this heartfelt farewell, the students waved back repeatedly, and some were even brought to tears.

Over the course of nine days, students did far more than acquire knowledge. They asked meaningful questions, engaged sincerely with both nature and the local community, and encountered diverse perspectives and ways of thinking. This experience became a significant step in their growth as IB learners, embodying the IB Learner Profile attributes of Inquirers, Open-minded, Caring, and Reflective. "We want to come back to Chichijima someday." That shared feeling is perhaps the greatest gift this program has left with each of them.