2021.02.01 Mon

On January 20 and 27, the International Centre held the fourth sessions of the "Online NIHONGO Chat Room" for international students from our partner universities and Gakushuin students who have signed up with the Centre as volunteers. In response to the spread of COVID-19, Gakushuin University's exchange programs have been suspended since last September. In lieu of the face-to-face programs, we organized the Chat Room to give both international and Gakushuin students an opportunity to interact virtually with each other.

A total of 23 students (7 international students and 16 Japanese volunteers) participated online from home in the two sessions. The theme was "How to stay healthy."

In responding to the survey after the sessions, many participants expressed their satisfaction with the event. Below are some of their comments.

"It was fun to talk with international students who are interested in Japan. They asked lots of questions and we enjoyed lively conversations."

"I took this opportunity to give another thought to Japanese culture and customs."

We also received many comments from the participants, requesting more opportunities to talk with students from a wider range of countries.

The next, and final, sessions will be held on February 3 and 10. From the participating students' comments, we understand that both international exchange students and Gakushuin students eagerly seek opportunities to interact. The International Centre is committed to continue to provide such occasions.