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2026 Ohio Japanese Language Speech Contest Finals

jasco logo
Sat, March 21, 2026
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Case Western Reserve University

The Japan-America Society of Central Ohio (JASCO) presents: 

Deadline for submission: Feb. 20, 2026
Details, handbook, and online form 

Since 1999, JASCO has been hosting the annual Ohio Japanese Speech Contest to promote Japanese language learning in the state of Ohio. The Contest showcases achievement in Japanese language learning and presents ideas and experiences that promote JASCO’s mission, that is to enrich lives by bringing Ohio’s Japanese and American communities together. The 2026 Ohio Japanese Speech Contest will be a single open category and the finals will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.  

Participants of the finals will perform from memory an original speech of their own creation in front of a panel of judges and audience. Following the speech, the panel of judges will ask questions related to the speech. The Q&A portion is conducted in Japanese as well. Two top speeches will be recognized with the competition awards. In addition, special awards may also be given in such categories as College, High School, and Best Pronunciation.