June 12, 2023
On June 9th (Friday), 2nd year international course students visited JICA Chubu, Nagoya Global Plaza.
They have been studying JICA’s “NERICA Rice Cultivation Support in Uganda’” the hardy strain of nice created to help support the food supply in the developing world. They researched JICA’s activities and initiatives, so they went to the visit fully prepared.
At Global Plaza, they received an explanation of JICA’s business, had a tour of its facilities and experience zones, and had a presentation on international cooperation. The presentation on international cooperation was from an overseas cooperation volunteer who was involved in supporting the independence of people with disabilities, a system that was not yet established in Jordan. What struck the students most were his words, “To support is not a way of looking down on people, but is also a way of giving back.” “Mutual understanding is important, and this will eventually lead to peace.”
Our students made these comments, “Even though I have seen information about developing countries on TV, this was the first time I felt close to them.” “When I heard stories from people who have actually worked in developing countries, I felt that there was something I could do to help.” “Now I want to support JICA’s activities.”
It is important to see, experience, and listen to real people’s stories rather than solely through the media. The students were able to see actual examples of “Table For Two” and “Fair Trade”, which they had studied in their textbooks, and they seemed to be able to realize even more the importance of international cooperation. A very meaningful lesson was learned by all.
■JICA (Independent Administrative Agency Japan International Cooperation Agency)