Journey of Growth at SIPS: Advocating for Justice and Peace
Eiichi Mizukami from Japan, embarked on a transformative journey through Soka University's Graduate School of International Peace Studies (SIPS) in 2022 after graduating from the Undergraduate Program Faculty of Letters at Soka University. His decision to pursue SIPS was influenced by his admiration for Daisaku Ikeda's peace philosophy which ignites a dream to bring peace to conflict-ridden regions like the Middle East and Africa. The interdisciplinary curriculum of SIPS that covers topics ranging from international relations to conflict resolution provided the platform for him to realize this dream.
Eiichi faced and overcame numerous challenges throughout his journey in SIPS. Despite the challenge of adapting to the multicultural environment, students from diverse backgrounds encouraged each other which helps Eiichi find solace in the supportive community of SIPS. He thrived in the multicultural environment, embracing the exchange of ideas and cultural diversity as being the only Japanese student. His understanding and perspectives of peace studies was also broadened due to his research on conflict resolution in the Central African Republic and internship experience in the international cooperation field at a non-profit organization.
Currently Eiichi is serving as a lawyer's secretary at a law office in Yokohama city, primarily preparing legal documents and facilitating client consultations related to civil and criminal incidents. He believes that the skills and knowledge gained from SIPS will play a crucial role in his role of protecting social justice. Through effective communication and empathy with his clients, he aims to contribute to the firm's mission of upholding the rights of individuals.
For current and prospective SIPS students, Eiichi emphasizes the importance of embracing the multicultural environment, cherishing opportunities for international cultural exchange, and supporting each other's growth. Beyond the classroom, he encourages students to actively participate in extracurricular programs like the Soka University Festival International Students’ Cafe, Global Citizenship Education Symposium, and a G20 commissions symposium, which facilitated his growth with valuable insights and experiences in the field of peace studies. Eiichi believes that every SIPS student can make a meaningful contribution to promoting peace and justice in the world with determination and collaboration.