Kansai University welcomed 42 students from the United States, Spain, Thailand, and Malaysia last week for the start of its intensive two-week Global Competence Blended Program, designed to deepen participants’ understanding of sustainability while enhancing their intercultural skills.

During the first week, students took part in a diverse lineup of academic workshops and cultural activities aimed at fostering a global mindset. Sessions included deep dives into sustainability, Society 5.0, marketing in Japan, and the Japanese economy, all delivered by Kansai University faculty. Japanese language and culture classes, led by Kansai University graduate students, provided hands-on opportunities for international participants to engage more deeply with local culture and customs. 

 

The program’s first week also featured campus visits across Kansai University’s locations, including Takatsuki, Senriyama, and the Suita Mirai campus, where students interacted with KU peers through discussion groups and collaborative learning activities. These campus experiences offered international participants an authentic glimpse into student life in Japan.

 

A special highlight of the week was a session led by Professor Keiko Ikeda, where students delivered group presentations on inclusive student housing and support systems around the world. The session brought together students and industry experts, creating an engaging platform to share global perspectives and discuss innovative practices in student support and accommodation.

 

To wrap up the week, the group visited the Osaka World Expo, a highlight of the program. Students toured several national pavilions, including special guided experiences at the Thai, Malaysian, and Spanish exhibits, where they learned more about each country’s contributions to sustainability and innovation. A visit to the NTT Pavilion offered insights into Japan’s telecommunications history and its vision for the digital future.

 

The Global Competence Program continues into its second week with fieldwork, collaborative projects, and more cultural immersion, as students continue to build cross-border friendships and explore real-world applications of global citizenship.