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.
This event will be hosted on the Ohio State Universities campus in our very own Haggerty Hall.
For those interested in entering application deadline for this event is February 20th.
To be eligible to participate in the 2026 Ohio Japanese Speech Contest, one must:
- Be 15 years or older at the time of the finals (March 21, 2026)
- Have learned to speak Japanese through an intentional study
- Have lived in the state of Ohio for at least 24 months, although not necessarily consecutively
- Have never won the top prize at any previous JASCO Japanese Speech Contests
- Be committed to participate in the finals in person at the Ohio State University
*Participants who are minors must be accompanied by a teacher, parent, guardian, or other authorized chaperone.
Please note that individuals who grew up in a primarily Japanese-speaking environment (family or school) may
not apply. Please see the FAQ in the Handbook for more details.
For more information on the event and on entering the contest, please visit 2026 Ohio Japanese Speech Contest | JASCO.