From June 30 (Thursday) to July 12 (Tuesday), the first open-style, short-term Japanese language training program for academic year 2016 took place over the course of approximately two weeks. This open-style program was participated in by general applicants.

A total of 25 people, including five from Brazil, Singapore, and South Korea, four from Hong Kong, two from the United States, and one each from Canada, Macao, Thailand, and Malaysia participated in and were exposed to traditional Japanese culture, including basic Japanese language studies, calligraphy, and wearing kimonos.
　
The completion ceremony took place on July 12, the last day of the program, during which a certificate was presented by Soka University’s Director of Japan Studies Center Isao Takagi, which was followed by each program participant giving a speech and sharing comments regarding the program. During the reception held after the ceremony, Board of Trustees Chair Yasunori Tashiro praised the participants for their efforts and shared his expectations for their success after their return to their home countries.

Participants shared the following comments.

“I am so glad to have participated in this program. It was a very good opportunity to study the Japanese language and culture. Thank you very much.” (Female student from Macao)

“While it was a short period, I felt that the learning environment of Soka University is wonderful. The students are always smiling, and I felt that they are enjoying their time on campus. I would like to study here in the future.” (Male student from Hong Kong)