Building Connections: The DLSU-TokyoTech Student Exchange Program was held from
September 2 to 16 wherein fourteen (14) Japanese students along with two (2)
professors namely Yamashita Yukihiko, and Winarto Kurniawan of Tokyo Institute
of Technology in Japan traveled to the Philippines. The activity aims more than
just to introduce Philippine culture to the Japanese visitors. More so, it also
aims to create external linkages between the two institutions. The Civil
Engineering Society (CES) of DLSU was assigned to assist the visitors in their
daily activities in academic activities and cultural tours.
From September 7-11, the Japanese students enrolled in an
English class arranged by the DLSU Civil Engineering Department. This class
aims to enhance their English language competency. On their last day of English
class, the TITECH students graduated from their class each receiving a
certificate of completion. Three students namely, Yosei Inoue (First), Takuya
Maekawa (Second) and Koki Hashizume (Third) were awarded certificates of
recognition for their high grades and ranking.
On the night of September 11, a farewell event was held for
our Japanese visitors at the roof deck of Henry Sy Sr. Hall. Students from DLSU
and TIT prepared presentations for the
program. While the Filipinos sang "Hawak Kamay" by Yeng Constantino,
the Japanese showcased some of their country's wacky and folk dances. The
program also included games and icebreakers wherein the Japanese were partnered
up with Filipinos in order to better strengthen the ties created in the past
few days. Games such as Pinoy Henyo, Tongue Twisters and Newspaper dance were
played.
From September 12- 13, all TITECH students and Sensei
Kurniawan accompanied by 6 CES officers and 3 CE faculty ventured in an
overnight trip at the Palm Beach Resort in Laiya, Batangas. Through the planned
activities, both parties became more acquainted with each other. The mini
vacation was able to deepen the Filipino-Japanese relationship.
Although it was challenging to break the language barrier
between the two groups, both the DLSU and the TITECH students were able to
create genuine friendships with one another. Moreover, the time spent will
truly be cherished by both groups. The CES students have nothing else to say to
them but thank you!
Article by Pat Ayala (CES)
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