Welcome Party Brings International and Japanese Students Together at Kumamoto University

On May 31, a vibrant welcome party for international students was held at the 100th Anniversary Hall of Kumamoto University (KU), warmly hosted by The Consortium of Universities in Kumamoto with support from many member institutions. Approximately 100 participants from 17 counties attended, including 26 faculty members, staff, international students, and Japanese students from KU.

The event was moderated by Lecturer Lander Bryant Sims, Special Assistant to the President of KU. The festivities began with a heartfelt welcome address by Jun Otani, Chairman of the International Exchange Committee and Executive Vice President of KU. Chairman Otani expressed his warm greetings to the international students, encouraging them not only to enjoy their academic life in Kumamoto but also to help foster greater internationalization among Japanese students.

Following the welcome speech, representatives of international students from various universities in Kumamoto introduced themselves and shared their favorite memories of the region. Their stories resonated deeply, inspiring both new and local students to develop a stronger connection and appreciation for their life and studies in Kumamoto.

The party’s lively atmosphere was enhanced by exciting performances. A student from Myanmar captivated the audience with a confident guitar solo and song. The energy soared with a dynamic YOSAKOI dance performance by members of Higomaguma (肥後真狗舞), who thrilled everyone with their performance of “Issaigassai (一彩がっ祭),” a popular dance song often featured in Kyushu festivals. Participants were invited to join a brief dance lesson and enthusiastically took part, dancing together in joyful harmony.

Adding to the fun, student supporters organized interactive games that encouraged mingling and laughter. One game involved matching partners through randomly drawn hiragana characters, followed by sharing three statements about themselves—one of which was false—allowing participants to learn more about each other in an engaging way. Another game involved passing a word along through gestures, breaking down language barriers and sparking endless laughter with animated and expressive movements.

This welcome party proved to be a fantastic opportunity for students to build friendships and connections, while also promoting communication and collaboration among universities across Kumamoto Prefecture. It highlighted the vibrant, supportive, and multicultural global environment that KU and its partners strive to cultivate for all students.