University of Tsukuba Hosts the 2024 Japan-ROK Exchange Program Supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The University of Tsukuba hosted the “2024 Japan-ROK Exchange Program” from August 19 to 22, 2024, at its Tokyo Campus, as part of the university’s 151st+50th Anniversary celebrations. This event, following a successful initiative from the previous year, involved 84 selected undergraduate students from Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK).
Participants and Selection Process
The delegation included 39 students from Japan and 45 from ROK, all of whom were chosen through a competitive selection process. The program received support from over 30 organizations, including the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Korean Cultural Center of the Embassy of Korea in Japan.
Key Program Elements
A key element of the program was the “Cross-cultural Communication Program with Project/Problem-Based Learning (CCPP),” which incorporated aspects of entrepreneurship and cross-cultural engagement. Faculty members, including Professors NISHINO Yoshitaka and Assistant Professors NOMURA Tsuyoshi, facilitated the initiative.
Activities and Objectives
During the four-day event, participants took part in team activities, attended special lectures, participated in workshops with local authorities, and engaged in cultural visits. The program’s thematic objective was to address shared challenges between Japan and ROK through the lens of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It sought to develop global talent capable of navigating and responding to diverse cultural contexts.
Leadership and Vision
Mr. HOZUMI Norihito, serving as the Planner and Operation Manager of the event, acknowledged the learning opportunities presented by the university and highlighted the initiative’s goal of establishing a new paradigm for international exchange through the CCPP.
Media Coverage and Impact
The program garnered significant attention and received coverage from various media outlets, including a report on the ROK Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism’s website. The initiative is presented as a means to enhance understanding and cooperation between the citizens of Japan and ROK, utilizing shared knowledge and technology from both nations.
(Source: University of Tsukuba)
