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The Grade 7 Newspaper Project at IISO transformed a simple English lesson into real‑world journalism. Students in Tokyo explored news reporting hands‑on—analyzing real newspapers, conducting interviews, and publishing their first issue with pride. Their teamwork, curiosity, and confidence made this project a standout moment of the school year.

IISO senior high school students spent a meaningful day at Nissan Stadium in Yokohama, watching the J.League match between Yokohama F. Marinos and Mito HollyHock. Beyond the excitement of professional football, students learned about social participation, public manners, and the Islamic value of balance while engaging confidently with the wider Japanese community.

IISO senior high school students visited Soka University in Hachioji during Golden Week 2026, where they experienced real university lectures, explored campus facilities, and received inspiring guidance from the FILA faculty. The warm hospitality and supportive learning environment helped students envision their future academic pathways in Japan.

IISO high school students explored two leading universities in Tokyo—Temple University Japan Campus and Japan Sports Science University—gaining firsthand insight into global education and advanced sports‑science pathways. These open‑campus experiences helped students build confidence, clarify future goals, and envision their academic journeys beyond high school.

IISO students enjoyed hands‑on Math learning outdoors as Grades 2 and 3 explored real‑life objects to understand 3D shapes, tally marks, and data collection. Through teamwork, observation, and exploration, students connected classroom concepts to the world around them—making learning active, joyful, and meaningful.

On April 15, 2026, the International Islamia School Otsuka (IISO) welcomed a distinguished delegation of Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly members representing multiple political parties. This important visit provided a valuable opportunity to introduce IISO’s educational philosophy, showcase our students’ achievements, and highlight the contributions of the Japan Islamic Trust (JIT) to local communities in Tokyo. This visit marks a meaningful milestone in strengthening dialogue be

This new study, co‑authored by IISO Principal Hussam Zaineh and Prof. Nejima of Toyo University, offers an important overview of Islamic schools in Japan. It highlights how community‑driven schools provide safe, values‑based learning while supporting multicultural education. The publication strengthens IISO’s role as a leading model for Muslim education in Japan.

A new academic study from Doshisha University highlights how the International Islamia School Otsuka (IISO) supports minority and international children in Japan through culturally responsive and inclusive education. The research shows clear improvements in students’ confidence, emotional stability, and engagement, emphasizing the impact of small classes, individualized support, and a values‑based learning environment where every child can thrive.

Our Grade 10 students explored Denenchofu and the Tamagawa River, connecting geography lessons with real landscapes, discovering ancient Kofun history, and enjoying outdoor learning. This field trip strengthened cultural understanding, teamwork, and IISO’s commitment to meaningful, hands‑on education.

IISO high school students attended ICFAST Tokyo 2026 at The University of Tokyo, gaining firsthand exposure to global science and technology. They interacted with Nobel Laureate Prof. Takaaki Kajita and industry leader Mr. B. V. R. Mohan Reddy, strengthening their motivation for STEM learning and international academic pathways.

IISO Students’ Council led a community cleaning activity across the park, Masjid, and school surroundings, promoting responsibility and environmental care. Supported by our Japanese teachers, students worked together to keep Otsuka clean and healthy—reflecting IISO’s commitment to character, service, and holistic education.

IISO officially joined the Japanese Red Cross Youth this year, giving our students new opportunities for leadership, service, and global citizenship. In February, our G10 representatives joined national meetings, exchange presentations, and teamwork activities that strengthened their confidence and communication skills. This partnership supports IISO’s holistic education.

At IISO, student wellness is a core part of our holistic education. Through annual vision, internal medicine, dental checkups, and regular body measurements, we work closely with families to support healthy growth. Our expanding health services—including new hearing screenings—ensure every child learns in a safe, caring environment.

This article explores how students’ brains develop from ages 6 to 18, and how understanding these stages helps us design compassionate, effective learning. By connecting neuroscience with classroom practice, we can better support our learners’ thinking, emotions, and growth—especially during the challenging early adolescent years.

Vygotsky’s social learning theory highlights how children grow through guided interaction, language, and cultural context. Islamic educational heritage reflects similar principles, where learning begins with support and develops into independent mastery. By combining Vygotsky’s ideas with Islamic values, educators and parents can guide children toward ethical, critical, and responsible learning—especially in today’s digital world.

During the blessed month of Rajab, our Preschool Weekend Club explored the inspiring story of Isra’ and Mi‘raj through joyful storytelling and hands‑on activities. Children learned about the Prophet’s ﷺ night journey, the ascent to the heavens, and the gift of salah. Through creative crafts and engaging lessons, they connected with Islamic history in a fun, meaningful, and memorable way.

IISO high school students visited the Catalysis for Energy Conversion Lab at the University of Tokyo, where they explored cutting‑edge research in renewable energy and hydrogen production. Through an interactive session with expert researchers and a tour of advanced equipment such as electrolyzers and glove boxes, students connected STEM learning with real‑world innovation and gained inspiration for future studies in science and sustainability.

Cooperation vs. Competition: What Builds Better Learners? At IISO, we believe cooperation—not rivalry—is the foundation of strong education. Islamic values and global research agree: teamwork builds deeper learning, stronger character, and healthier minds. Top systems like Finland and Japan avoid peer competition and focus on collaboration. Let’s raise confident learners who grow by helping—not outshining—each other.

IISO hosted a transformative HEART Model workshop led by Dr. Wadood Hassan, exploring Prophetic Tarbiyah, mindfulness, and building an Allah centered school culture inspired by Surah Luqman.

IISO High School opened its first Grade 10 cohort in April 2025, marking a new stage in our mission to provide a future‑ready, values‑driven education. With two diploma pathways, a strong STEM focus, advanced bilingual development, and personalized university preparation, our high school offers an enriching environment where students grow academically, spiritually, and socially.