Hachioji CampusTeikyo's Ethiopian Encounter: A Cultural Exchange Beyond Borders

In a bid to foster cross-cultural understanding, Teikyo University's Hachioji Campus played host to a special class on Thursday, November 2 and Thursday, November 9, 2023. The unique session, held within the "Presentation IV" class instructed by Associate Professor Mikako Nishimuko in the Faculty of Language Studies Department, welcomed Mr. Abebau Asayi, a native of Ethiopia pursuing agricultural economics studies at a Japanese university.

The primary objective of the class was to deepen cultural awareness through English communication, with the ultimate goal of nurturing a symbiotic society. Students, equipped with prior knowledge of Ethiopian food culture, etiquette, tourism, and trade, actively engaged in the discourse. The interactive session kicked off with students posing intriguing questions to Mr. Asayi, spanning topics from recommended Ethiopian sightseeing spots and restaurants in Japan to his favorite Japanese food. The inquiries also delved into the challenges faced during his journey to Japan and Ethiopian perspectives on marriage. Communicating solely in English, Mr. Asayi offered insightful responses. The class further delved into discussions on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), shedding light on issues like regional disparities in education, sanitation, and poverty in Ethiopia. As the session progressed, cultural disparities encountered by Mr. Asayi upon arriving in Japan took center stage. From the intricacies of high-tech toilets to the prevalence of vending machines, students learned about aspects of Japanese culture that often escape notice.

Reflecting on the experience, participating students shared their newfound realizations. One student remarked, "I realized that we are blessed to have had a textbook in our hands since elementary school." Another expressed, "I felt the joy of understanding diversity and different cultures," while a third student was surprised by the revelation that 84 languages are spoken within a single country. This illuminating exchange not only broadened the students' global perspectives but also highlighted the richness that comes from embracing diversity and recognizing the nuances of cultures beyond one's own. Teikyo University continues to champion such initiatives, fostering an environment where students can thrive in an interconnected world.

Click here for more information about Associate Professor Nishimuko

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