Short-Term Exchange Program with the University of the Philippines Diliman Conducted

This 16-day program was based on Japanese language education and combined lectures on Japanese literature, culture, society, history, and the arts with field studies, cultural experiences, and interaction with Kanazawa University students. The program also aimed to introduce participants to Kanazawa University's educational and research environment and provide an opportunity for them to consider pursuing graduate studies (master's and doctoral programs) at Kanazawa University and other Japanese universities in the future.

At the opening ceremony on July 6, Vice President Noriko Hasebe delivered a welcoming address. Greetings were also delivered by faculty members from the University of the Philippines Diliman and Professor Judy Ick, Chair of the Department of Comparative Literature. Following the ceremony, participants took part in an orientation session, a campus tour, student exchange activities, and a welcome reception, further strengthening exchanges between the two universities.​​

Associate Professor Raj Lakhi SEN of the International Center for Research and Education of Japan Studies, who planned and managed the program, coordinated the entire program from the first-day orientation onward. He also delivered lectures on contemporary Japanese culture and society, as well as gender in Japanese literature and culture. In addition, researchers and guest lecturers from diverse academic fields offered lectures on various Japan-related topics, enabling participants to learn about Japan from interdisciplinary perspectives.

During the program, participants engaged in field studies at Kenroku-en Garden, the Hakusan Tedorigawa UNESCO Global Geopark, the D.T. Suzuki Museum, and the Ishikawa Prefectural Library. They also took part in hands-on cultural experiences involving graphic design, kimono, and Noh masks. Student supporters from Kanazawa University assisted participants through academic support, interpretation, assistance with off-campus activities, and daily interaction.

At the closing ceremony, Vice President Noriko Hasebe and Professor Hiroshi Yamamoto, Director of the International Center for Research and Education of Japan Studies, presented certificates of participation to the students from the University of the Philippines Diliman and the Kanazawa University student supporters.

The program provided participants with a valuable opportunity not only to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture but also to gain firsthand knowledge of Kanazawa University's educational and research environment and Japan's graduate education system. Looking ahead, the program is expected to promote further person-to-person exchange, including graduate school enrollment, and contribute to the continued development of educational and research collaboration between the two universities.