Egao Cafe [vocational training for students with intellectual disabilities in collaboration with universities]
Program Overview
University Program: Egao Cafe
The Egao Cafe program is a vocational training initiative for students with intellectual disabilities, conducted in collaboration with the University of Tsukuba.
Program Overview
The program involves students from the higher grade levels of the affiliated Otsuka Special Needs School participating in work experience activities, including the sale of handmade products and cleaning services on the university campus.
Activities and Products
The students create and sell various products, such as:
- Towels and handkerchiefs printed with original designs using a tekkin printing machine
- Tote bags made from reused flour and rice bags
- Deodorants made from dried coffee bean husks
- Baked goods, including cheesecakes, snowball cookies, and weekend citron, with each student responsible for creating an entire product from start to finish
Program Implementation
The program was implemented on several occasions, including:
- June, September, and December of the fourth year of the Reiwa era, and January and February of the fifth year, at the Tokyo campus
- December 14 of the previous year, at the Tsukuba campus, with support from many people affiliated with the University of Tsukuba
- July 5 (third-area cafeteria), October 1 (university hall), and December 6 (physical education area) of the fifth year of the Reiwa era, with many customers attending and purchasing products
Objectives and Outcomes
The program aims to provide students with intellectual disabilities with valuable work experience and skills, while promoting social interaction and understanding. The outcomes of the program have been positive, with students gaining confidence and skills, and receiving praise and support from customers and university staff.
Future Directions
The program will continue to prioritize "university collaboration" and "social connection" in its career education initiatives, with the goal of providing students with intellectual disabilities with meaningful work experience and skills for the future.