Before Super Typhoons and Sinlaku hit the Marianas, Northern Marianas College's (NMC) Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) launched its inaugural Marianas Education Tourism Program from March 31 to April 4, 2026. The five-day pilot program welcomed students from the Shizuoka Breakdance Association in Japan for an immersive English language and cultural exchange experience on Saipan.
NMC Marianas Education Tourism Program combines classroom English instruction, delivered in partnership with its School of Education, with hands-on cultural, historical, environmental, and community-based experiences. The program was developed in collaboration with the Shizuoka Prefectural Assembly, strengthening connections between the CNMI and Japan through education and cross-cultural engagement.
For this inaugural cohort, dance served as the central thread connecting the two: participants took part in workshops and performance exchanges with local groups including The Profound Bandits, the MHS Polksai Chamorro Club, and local jazz street dancers.
A highlight of the week was the participation of Shintaro Yuya, also known as Yu-Ya Style, a two-time world breakdancing champion, veteran Japanese dancer, and founder of HSE.Style Dance Studio in Japan. With more than 70 competition victories and extensive experience developing the next generation of dancers, Yu-Ya brought his expertise as both a performer and participant of the program. He led choreography sessions, shared his creative process, and engaged participants through meaningful cultural and artistic exchange throughout the week.
Beyond the classroom and dance sessions, participants connected language learning with real-world experience through visits to the CREES Agricultural Farm, American Memorial Park Museum, Marpi historical sites, and the Shizuoka Memorial, along with marine and environmental activities including a Managaha Island excursion and lagoon sailing with 500 Sails. The week concluded with a final cultural exchange and certificate ceremony.
"The students who participated in this program grew tremendously in what felt like an incredibly short time. It is hard to believe it was only one week. We could clearly see their growth through the changes in their expressions, attitudes, and daily behavior. Most importantly, every one of the students genuinely enjoyed the experience. It was especially heartwarming to hear them all say, 'We want to come back again!' The English program was also excellent. Because they received personalized one-on-one instruction, their understanding deepened, and we could see a noticeable improvement in their English skills," said Shintaro Yuya (Yu-Ya Style), founder of HSE.Style Dance Studio.
He added, "Everyone we met in Saipan was incredibly kind and welcoming. Not only did the students fall in love with Saipan, but I did as well. I hope to share this wonderful experience with many people in Japan and continue creating opportunities like this study abroad program every year."
The program was supported by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), which provided support and collaboration throughout the inaugural program experience.
"CTI continues to explore innovative ways to connect education, community, and economic development opportunities in the CNMI," said Monique Boyer Sablan, CTI Director. "The Marianas Education Tourism Program represents an exciting opportunity to expand how we think about education by bringing learning beyond the classroom and connecting international participants with our islands, our culture, and our communities. This program highlights the CNMI's potential to serve as a destination for meaningful educational experiences and cross-cultural exchange."
CTI designs each Marianas Education Tourism Program around the specific goals, interests, and learning objectives of each visiting group, whether academic, cultural, professional, or athletic in focus. Since the inaugural launch, CTI has received interest from additional educational institutions and organizations in Japan and is now working with prospective partners to develop future customized programs in the CNMI, including opportunities for participants to experience Tinian and Rota.
Organizations interested in developing a customized education tourism program are encouraged to contact NMC's Center for Training and Innovation at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (670) 237-6802.
Participants take part in agricultural activities at the NMC Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Service (CREES) Agricultural Research Station. During their visit, students toured the facility, learned about local agriculture and native plant species, and participated in a hands-on environmental stewardship activity as part of the Marianas Education Tourism Program.
Shintaro Yuya, also known as Yu-Ya Style, learns a traditional Chamorro dance from members of the Marianas High School Polksai Chamorro Club during a cultural exchange activity. The experience highlighted the program's emphasis on mutual learning and cross-cultural appreciation.
Participants tour the American Memorial Park Museum as part of the inaugural Marianas Education Tourism Program. The visit provided students with an opportunity to learn about the history of World War II in the Mariana Islands, including the historical connections between the CNMI and Japan, while deepening their understanding of the region's shared history.
About NMC Center for Training and Innovation
NMC Center for Training and Innovation (CTI) provides workforce development, professional training, and customized educational programs designed to support individuals, organizations, and communities throughout the CNMI and beyond. CTI develops innovative learning opportunities that connect education, industry, culture, and community partnerships to support lifelong learning and economic growth.