We held a four-week “Global Leadership Program” over Zoom and nine Korea University Students participated. Usually, this program is held on the Imadegawa Campus, but this year Korea University students were not able to come to the campus due to travel restrictions put in place due to the rise in COVID-19 cases, so we ran the program virtually.

This is our fifth time holding the program with Korea University, which is one of the most prestigious private universities in Korea.

During the program, participants took intensive Japanese language classes provided by Doshisha faculty as well as Japanese culture classes from guest speakers that helped them experience Buddhist meditation and gain greater knowledge of the history of Kimono. Moreover, they took area studies classes provided by three guest speakers where they learned about the philosophy of the Shimazu Corporation, how Japanese senior care industries tackle challenges, and how the Japanese television and film industries are affected by COVID-19.

On the last day of the program, each participant gave a presentation in Japanese. They spoke Japanese fluently with confidence. We were glad to see their progress.

Nineteen Doshisha students also attended the classes, closing ceremony, and other events as volunteers. At the classes, they helped participants with preparing for their final presentations.

At the closing ceremony, participants interacted with Doshisha’s supporters in Japanese very well. Even though the program was only four weeks long and was held virtually, the Doshisha and Korea University students bonded well and seemed to be great influences on one another.

We hope that the participants enjoyed the program and will continue to learn about the Japanese language and Japanese culture.

https://www.doshisha.ac.jp/en/news/2022/0309/news-detail-1274.html