The International Office hosted the International Summer School “Get together in Tokushima, Japan 2024” from August 1 to 9, 2024. Since 2012, this program has been dedicated to showcasing Tokushima University to the world, inviting future graduate students to experience the unique charm of Tokushima and consider joining Tokushima University academic community. This year, 44 participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Taiwan, and Vietnam were welcomed.

Throughout the program, participants were immersed in cultural experiences. They engaged in lively exchanges with Japanese students and dove into traditional Japanese arts such as calligraphy (Shodo), the tranquil tea ceremony (Sado), the thunderous rhythm of taiko drumming (Wadaiko), and the enchanting puppet theater (Ningyo Joruri). They also explored Tokushima’s rich local culture through hands-on activities like indigo dyeing (Aizome) and the spirited Awa Odori dance, alongside insightful company visits. These experiences offered participants a profound appreciation of both Japanese and Tokushima culture.

A highlight was their meaningful interactions with the local community. Participants forged connections with high school students at Anan Hikari High School’s Aratano Campus, enjoyed a warm courtesy visit with Tokushima Prefecture Governor Gotoda Masazumi, and explored the Tokushima Prefectural Office.

In addition, participants had the opportunity to visit cutting-edge research laboratories across three faculties, aligned with their academic interests. Their eagerness to engage in discussions and ask questions was a testament to their interest in our university’s research.

This summer school was more than just a cultural exchange; it was a global meeting where participants from diverse countries and universities came together, learning from one another and elevating their global communication skills. For Japanese students and local high schoolers, it was a valuable chance to experience internationalization firsthand, igniting a passion for future study abroad and global career aspirations.

Hopefully the participants of this program will one day return to Japan, this time as international students at Tokushima University, continuing the journey that began in the heart of Tokushima.

 

Laboratory visit

Calligraphy experience

 

Puppet theater experience

Courtesy visit to the Tokushima Prefecture Governor

Exchange activities at Anan Hikari High School

Group photo at the Opening Ceremony