Report about the special event of Link and Learn International
On the morning of Saturday, March 2, 2024, we held a global experience program event where foreign exchange students introduced their home countries to local children.
The volunteers who joined us this time are Urvi from India, Ali from Uzbekistan, Chris from Australia, Shinman from China, and Daiki from Japan. The volunteers were mainly international students studying at Keio University Graduate School, with students from the University of Tokyo also participating.
With 5 volunteer students, 17 children participants, 17 accompanying adults participants, and 9 operation supporting members, the event turned out to be a large-scale affair, with a total of 48 participants.
At the Australian booth, we were first introduced to iconic landmarks such as Ayers Rock and the Opera House. Following that, we participated in crafting Australian kangaroos. Additionally, we had the opportunity to learn about Australian English expressions such as “G’day mate” (hello) and “Cheers” (thank you).
At the Chinese booth, we discovered that the shape of the country’s territory is often symbolically likened to an auspicious rooster. We also received explanations about China’s Four Great Inventions from ancient times: printing, papermaking, the compass, and gunpowder. Furthermore, we delved into the origins of Chinese characters and received an introduction to modern China. Following this, we learned about a traditional Chinese game called “Jianzi,” also known as shuttlecock kicking. It appears that the basic kicking technique involves using the inner side of the foot.
At the Indian booth, we danced to the tune of “bum bum bole” from the Bollywood movie “Taare Zameen Par.” This film narrates the story of a child who was bullied and abandoned but rediscovers confidence by showcasing artistic talents nurtured with the guidance of an art teacher. The lyrics convey a message encouraging children: “The world is what you make of it. It’s in the eye of the beholder. Come, let’s think openly. Spread your wings. Spread new colors. Come on now! Let’s weave new dreams!”
At the Uzbekistan booth, the student brought traditional costumes and Uzbekistan pottery. The traditional costumes gave an impression similar to Japan’s kasuri kimono. We enjoyed an activity where we pasted photos of Uzbekistan’s national emblem, national flag, and local products onto a map and flag-themed base, laminating them to create mats.
This time, Ms. Risa Kamio, who serves as the Executive Director of the General Incorporated Association for International Education and also as a Setagaya Ward Assembly member, coordinated volunteers from Keio University Graduate School and the University of Tokyo to oversee this program. Additionally, we would like to express our gratitude to Ms. Sakata, an international relations consultant, and to the members of HOME IN JAPAN, an international organization with over 2000 members dedicated to promoting multicultural coexistence. We are also thankful to Ms. Meera, who led the bilingual yoga class held in the afternoon. The student volunteers worked hard amidst busy schedules, one even participating in volunteer activities for debris disposal after the Noto Peninsula earthquake, and others facing injuries at the last minute. Despite these challenging circumstances, Ali-kun, Urvi-san, Chris-kun, Shinman-san, Daiki-kun, and all supporters, we extend our sincere thanks to you for your dedication and various preparations for this event.
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