Soka University student Ms. Saki Kanda (Global Citizenship Program student), a second year student in the Faculty of Law, participated in the “Japan-China Youth Friendship Exchange Program,” which is an international youth exchange project sponsored by the Cabinet Office. 

The purpose of the project is to promote friendship and understanding between nations through youth exchanges of Japan and various countries as well as to help them expand their international perspective and to foster youth who can manifest leadership in the international arena by nurturing their spirit for international cooperation and improving their ability to actualize international cooperation.
Approximately 25 students were selected from Japan for the “Japan-China Youth Friendship Exchange Program.” Between October 29th (Tuesday) to November 9th (Saturday), they visited the cities of Beijing, Zhengzhou, and Hangzhou in China. They held discussions with local students, introduced Japanese culture to them, had exchanges with the youth of China through homestays, and also visited the National Palace Museum, Longmen Grottoes, as well as local companies. 

Ms. Kanda who participated shared: "Participating in this program, I was able to learn about China's lasting history and culture as well as its innovation and city development. My image of China drastically changed. Also, enjoying the food and cultural exchange through my host family and the local youth, I felt the importance of heart-to-heart exchanges. I was able to build friendships not only with the youth of China but also with staff who gathered from all across Japan. I will continue to exert myself in my studies so that I can become a bridge that connects Japan and China."