Growing Cross-Cultural Understanding – Tohokugakuin University Japan and Undiksha Japanese Language Education Study Program Collaborate

Singaraja, FBS – In line with Undiksha’s internationalization program, the Japanese Language Education Study Program is collaborating with Tohokugakuin University, Japan. This collaboration was packaged in the form of discussions and project presentations by students from both parties. Indonesian students introduced Indonesian culture and uniqueness, whereas Japanese students introduced Japanese culture. The culmination of this activity is the growth of the seeds of cross-cultural understanding between Indonesia (especially Bali) and Japan.

I Wayan Sadyana, S.S., M.Sc., and I Kadek Antarctica, S.S., M.Hum. as a lecturer in the Japanese Language Education study program welcomed and accompanied lecturers and students from Tohokugakuin University, Japan. This program lasts for two days, namely from 7 – 8 September 2023. On the first day, academic activities are carried out in the Nitisastra room, such as cultural presentations, and introductions to regional foods and tourist attractions in Indonesia and Japan. Meanwhile, on the second day. There will be an introduction to education in the open air which is planned to be carried out in Sekumpul Village.

Previously, FBS Undiksha, through the Japanese Language Education Study Program, had also carried out similar activities. This activity was carried out by the Undiksha Japanese Language Education Study Program with IWATE University. This activity, which involved dozens of Japanese students, received very good appreciation from IWATE. The reason is that at that time they had an extraordinary experience gained directly through the culture in Pedawa-Buleleng. Reflecting on this, Tohokugakuin University came directly to Undiksha with 12 students and 2 accompanying lecturers, namely Nao Endo and Masumi Tsubota. This collaboration is designed to provide opportunities for students to be able to communicate, practice speaking, and at the same time introduce each other’s culture.

I Wayan Sadnyana as the PIC in this program hope that programs like this can continue to be supported by all parties considering that this can be a stepping stone for the study program to be able to establish wider collaboration with Universities/Companies in Japan. (FBS)