International Exchange Program with Tsukumodai Elementary School, Suita City

2026/01/14

As part of the "Japan Stud" class, Kansai University's Bekka Program conducted an international exchange activity with Tsukumodai Elementary School in Suita City. This program aimed to deepen cross-cultural understanding and promote "mutual growth-oriented career learning," in which both children and international students learn and grow together.

During the first class period, Bekka students introduced their home countries and regions, and the elementary school students gave presentations of their own. The Bekka students presented their cultures, languages, and daily lives through quizzes, offering small prizes to correct answers, which created a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout the session. Meanwhile, the elementary school students used tablets to give creative presentations about their school life and recommended local sightseeing spots. The high quality of these presentations left a strong impression on the Bekka students.

During the break, participants enjoyed various activities together, such as dodgeball and tag, playing card games, and touring the school. Many natural smiles were seen as the interaction deepened through these shared experiences.

In the second class period, the Bekka students gave presentations about what inspired them to study abroad and their future career paths. This session was held at the request of the elementary school as part of career education for sixth-grade students, who wished to hear directly about the real experiences of Bekka students. After the presentations, students formed small groups to discuss their own dreams and aspirations for the future.

The Bekka students shared reflections such as: "This gave me a chance to rethink my own goals," "I was able to show the children that there are many different ways of living," and "I gained confidence in expressing my thoughts in Japanese." Some also mentioned that hearing the children say they wanted to "turn what they love into a career" reminded them of their original motivations.

Teachers at the elementary school praised the activity, commenting that "It was impressive to see the Bekka students listening attentively at the same eye level as the children while taking notes," and that "Because they are closer in age, the Bekka students served as excellent role models." After the program, heartfelt letters from the elementary school students were sent to the Bekka students, who were delighted by the gesture. In return, the Bekka Program later sent thank-you postcards to the school.

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