On December 16 and 17, 2008, Sumitomo Corporation welcomed 10 third graders from Tokyo Metropolitan Koishikawa Secondary Education School as part of a work experience program. The initiative was launched in response to a request from the school, aiming at encouraging students to understand the significance of working and the importance of team work and societal relationships.

Participating students were first given a summary of our group companies' activities through company promotional video and other materials. They then helped with the creation of pamphlets, preparations for calendar distribution, etc. at our business units and took part in a variety of social contribution activities by, for example, attending related meetings for relevant staff members from companies located in Chuo-ku, and helping with the creation of picture books for children in Laos.

We later received a thank you note saying the students had benefited greatly from the experience, despite the short two-day period. Following are some comments from the students: "Attending the meeting and participating in the other activities provided precious experience that I could not have gained elsewhere;'' "I learned that there are various departments in Sumitomo Corporation operating in concert with each other;" "I learned there are departments operating for environment and social contribution. I realized they are highly aware of working for people;" "I learned to be punctual and to manage time effectively. I will try not to be late for school from now on.'' Through interaction with our employees at offices, the cafeteria, and other places, the students were able to get a direct feel for the culture of our company. 

Through activities such as this, Sumitomo Corporation will continue to support the cultivation of excellent human resources of the next-generation and actively establish close relationship within local communities.