BUILDING GLOBAL SKILLS: AN ANALYSIS OF RESPONSES FROM THE JAPAN INTERNSHIP CULINARY PROGRAM

Japan Internship Program is an initiative designed to provide international internship experience to Culinary Arts students. This study aims to analyze the competencies and impacts gained by participants. Japan Internship Program in the field of Culinary Arts, and explores differences in response results based on gender. Using a quantitative descriptive approach, this study involved 31 respondents selected through a questionnaire technique. Purposive sampling the research instrument consisted of 30 statements measured on a 5-point Likert scale. The analysis showed that the average competency and impact of participants were in the 'fair' category, with the majority of respondents achieving the 'good' category. Although the program successfully improved technical and cross-cultural skills, some participants still faced challenges in reaching their full potential, influenced by factors such as previous experience and company support. The implications of this study emphasize the importance of adequate supervision and curriculum relevance, as well as the need for ongoing support for participants. This study recommends further study to explore gender dynamics and more effective strategies to overcome obstacles faced by participants, to improve the effectiveness of international internship programs in the future.