World Youth Meeting History of the Event Since 1999, the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and technology has sponsored this international exchange event. Typical of this type of international exchange, it uses the Internet and multimedia with high school and university students participating in it. To succeed in events like this and the world today, we think young people must acquire the ability to use the Internet, computers and English. We've been holding the World Youth Meeting (WYM) to develop these abilities in students. This event provides an opportunity for people all over the world to meet and develop friendships. Using the communication tools mentioned above, they share information, ideas, and opinions through international exchange and the interaction of different cultures. Purpose: ・ Equip students with the Internet skills they will need in this information society; ・ Increase the students' understanding of societies and cultures inside and outside Japan; ・ Enable students to have a balanced world view and build their own identity; ・ Equip students with the ability to learn about other people, cultures, and societies. Reference: http://www.japannet.gr.jp/w2004/