FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE 20TH SHIP FOR WORLD YOUTH OPENS FOR APPLICATIONS
''New Zealand youth invited onboard the Nippon Maru

AUCKLAND, 12 June, 2007 - For the tenth time, New Zealand has been invited by the Government of Japan to attend the 20th Ship for World Youth Programme 2008 (SWY20) which will be held from 15 January to 5 March 2008 in Japan and onboard the Nippon Maru.

The SWY programme was developed by the Government of Japan and is conducted to build strong and continuing links among the youth from Japan and other nations. Annually, the SWY programme brings together approximately 120 youth from Japan and 140 youth from 13 other nations to live together onboard a ship to discuss common issues from a global viewpoint.

Over a 51 day period, participants will be involved in a wide range of activities aimed at fostering cultural sensitivity, understanding and friendship. Most of the programme is conducted onboard the cruise liner, Nippon Maru, with some activities scheduled in Japan, and others in the seaports of Chennai, India, and Muscat, Oman that are visited in the course of the voyage.

This year, 10 New Zealand youth aged between 18 and 30 years are invited to participate SWY20. The representatives for SWY20 will be chosen based on active youth involvement in the community and/or has made a contribution to the advancement of youth/ the community in New Zealand. Applicants must be New Zealand citizens.

Elliot Roberts, current President of NZSWYAA and member of SWY17, said, “My 53 day stint on SWY was a once-in-a-lifetime experience which enabled me to meet interesting individuals, learn about different countries and cultures as well as discuss various issues that are faced by youth today.

“Different backgrounds and references have put youth issues into many perspectives which made various discussions very interesting and thought-provoking,” he added.

For SWY20, the Cabinet Office of Japan will cover the cost of airfares and accommodation in Japan and during the SWY programme.

Interested individuals who wish to participate in SWY20 can visit www.swynz.org.nz for more information and to download the application form. Closing date for applications is 27 July 2007.
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Information released by The New Zealand Ship for World Youth Alumni Association (NZSWYAA). For more information, kindly contact:

Elliot Roberts

Email: elliot_roberts_98@yahoo.com

ENDS

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