Okayama University conducted the closing ceremony for the US
Department of State Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program Summer
Online Course, an intensive Japanese language and culture training
program held from June 15 to August 7. Thirty-two outstanding American
undergraduate and graduate students participated in the course, which
was held online due to the coronavirus pandemic. Okayama University
faculty and staff involved in the program, other program personnel, and
participating students all joined the closing ceremony via a
video-conferencing platform.
Executive Director for Academic Affairs FUNAHASHI Hiroaki gave the
opening speech, followed by a video message by Okayama University
President MAKINO Hirofumi. “Harmony is the most precious asset, ” said
President Makino, introducing a famous aphorism coined by Prince Shotoku
in a seventeen-article constitution outlining spiritual aspirations.
“Rather than falling out over a difference of opinions, I encourage all
of you to embrace the aspect of Japanese culture that values harmony and
to forge relationships built on open discussion, ” he continued, “I
believe that the CLS program has given you the opportunity to
communicate with various people, allowing you to cross borders and build
harmony through discussion, and I hope that it will prove a fruitful
experience. I have great expectations for your futures.”
Afterwards, 4 student representatives (one from each class) spoke about
what they learned from the program and expressed their gratitude to
everyone involved. Despite being held online, students appreciated the
opportunity to learn more about Japanese language and culture through
various virtual activities—including cultural activities highlighting
the SDGs and interviews—and to form friendships through interactions
with Okayama University students and language-exchange partners. The
students reflected on positive memories from the eight-week program and
presented a surprise video showcasing activities they enjoyed.
Then, instructors and language-exchange partners who participated in the
program said a few words, followed by a message of gratitude by
American Councils for International Education Officer Syejeong KIM.
Finally, Senior Vice President and UNESCO Chairholder YOKOI Atsufumi
closed the ceremony, officially bringing an end to the summer course.
● CLS program
The CLS program is a US Department of State initiative aimed at
encouraging young Americans to become proficient in one of 15 languages,
including Russian and Chinese, which have been recognized as critical
to America’s national security and economic prosperity.
Domestic acceptance to the program began in 2010, and the program is run by the American Councils for International Education, a US non-profit organization specializing in international education and exchange.
https://www.okayama-u.ac.jp/eng/news/index_id10495.html
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