On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, a completion ceremony was held for the Japanese Language Preparatory Course for the second semester of the 2025 academic year. The purpose of this course is for government-sponsored international students to study Japanese language intensively.
After receiving their certificates from Professor Shino Takahashi of the Institute for International Relations, the October 2025 graduates of the course presented the results of their studies. The students gave presentations in Japanese about their home country’s cuisine, sports, and favorite things about Japan. Despite their nervousness, they made eye contact with those in attendance and seemed calm as they finished their presentations, which were met with a round of applause from the audience.
In addition to their academic advisors and Japanese language instructors from the Institute for International Relations, J-support (a volunteer organization that supports international students in their Japanese language studies) and friends also attended this completion ceremony.
One of the graduates said, “I was nervous, but I was able to present my presentation slowly and in Japanese. I practiced a lot and it gave me a great sense of accomplishment. I will continue to study Japanese while doing research.” It was a meaningful time for the graduates and participants alike.
The students will begin their studies in their field of specialization next semester.
Students who completed the Preparatory Japanese Language Course in the second semester of 2025
- Faculty of Education MAPHOSA THEMBELIHLE, Republic of Zimbabwe
＜Institute for International Relations（IIR）＞