University of Gdansk and Tokiwa University Joint Symposium
On Thursday, May 22, Tokiwa University (TU) hosted a joint symposium with the University of Gdańsk (UG) from Poland. Held on campus, the event brought together approximately 100 participants, including students and faculty from both institutions. It served as a valuable opportunity for academic exchange and the strengthening of international collaboration.
The symposium began with opening remarks from TU President Mr. Shimomura, followed by speeches from Dr. Splisgart, Head of the Department of Japanese Studies at the Faculty of Languages, UG, and Ms. Czernichowska-Kramarz, a lecturer in the same department.
Next was a lecture by Mrs. Splisgart, also a lecturer in the Department of Japanese Studies at UG, titled "The Development of Japanese Studies in Poland: Current Situation and Future Prospects."
The symposium began with opening remarks from TU President Mr. Shimomura, followed by speeches from Dr. Splisgart, Head of the Department of Japanese Studies at the Faculty of Languages, UG, and Ms. Czernichowska-Kramarz, a lecturer in the same department.
Next was a lecture by Mrs. Splisgart, also a lecturer in the Department of Japanese Studies at UG, titled "The Development of Japanese Studies in Poland: Current Situation and Future Prospects."
Following this, four UG students currently studying Japanese delivered an engaging presentation on Kashubia. The talk was both informative and captivating, offering fascinating insights into the region’s culture, history, and traditions— many of which were new to the audience. Their enthusiasm made the session not only educational but also thoroughly enjoyable.
The final presentation before the break was delivered by Dr. Iino, Head of the Department of Communication at TU, who shared her experiences from her visit to Gdańsk last December. She spoke about the similarities and differences she observed at UG, as well as her impressions of the city and its people. Her reflections offered a thoughtful perspective on both academic and cultural life in Gdańsk.
The final presentation before the break was delivered by Dr. Iino, Head of the Department of Communication at TU, who shared her experiences from her visit to Gdańsk last December. She spoke about the similarities and differences she observed at UG, as well as her impressions of the city and its people. Her reflections offered a thoughtful perspective on both academic and cultural life in Gdańsk.
The second half of the symposium featured two sessions: a talk session with four students who had participated in exchange programs (two from UG and two from TU), and a group session involving all participants.
During the talk session, the students shared both the highlights and challenges of their exchange experiences, including moments of culture shock, both positive and difficult. Despite the ups and downs, they spoke enthusiastically about the personal growth and valuable insights they gained while studying in Japan and Poland.
During the talk session, the students shared both the highlights and challenges of their exchange experiences, including moments of culture shock, both positive and difficult. Despite the ups and downs, they spoke enthusiastically about the personal growth and valuable insights they gained while studying in Japan and Poland.
The group session centred on the theme “How to Promote Exchange Between Poland and Japan.” Each group explored a variety of strategies to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen ties between the two countries. The dynamic discussions showcased the participants’ creativity and genuine interest in cross-cultural collaboration, leaving everyone inspired by the future possibilities for both nations.
