Japanese High Schoolers Come on Study Tour

Konnichiwa! We recently played host to 28 high school students from Japan for a week-long language and cultural programme.

The Centre for Excellence in Lifelong Learning and International Partnership Unit hosted the programme titled “English Studies and Cultural Exchange Programme: A Malaysian Experience” for the students from Soka High School in Tokyo and Kansai Soka High School in Osaka.

The 16-17 year olds arrived on 13 February along with 4 chaperones. Together, they embarked on this educational journey from 14 to 20 February.

To kick off the programme, we had a welcome ceremony in the presence of our university management, with OUM President/Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dr Ahmad Izanee Awang, delivering the welcoming remarks.

Under external trainer, Ms Shashtrika Baskaran, the students engaged in immersive English language classroom sessions to enhance their language skills. Many of the students gave the feedback that they were initially afraid of communicating in English but were now eager to learn more and converse as frequently as possible in English. This was proven in their final presentation before the programme ended.

The students also went on exciting outings to explore and learn about various places of interest such as Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, China Town and Putrajaya. They were introduced to Malaysian cuisine as part of the cultural sessions. They described Malaysian food in one word – spicy!

The closing ceremony was held on 20 February, with certificates presented to each participant.

We hope we had provided them with an unforgettable experience!