Spotlights

Hello, this is SIED. 

SIED organized the “MIX UP CAMP” at the Doshisha Biwako Retreat Center on May 17-18 (Saturday-Sunday) with 34 participants, including 17 international students, 8 local students, and 9 staff members. 

The camp was held under the slogan “No Borders,” where students from different backgrounds used camp names instead of their real names and hid their identities. This approach removed borders such as countries, languages, and ways of thinking, creating an unprecedented opportunity for exchange. 

Day 1: 

The first activity was the opening ceremony. Each participant shared their goals for the camp, which were displayed on the wall, generating high anticipation for the event. 

Next is a sports competition, which included paper airplane flying, a message gesture game, and a ball-collecting challenge. In the message gesture game, participants created gestures full of individuality, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter from start to finish. Certificates were awarded to the best teams, adding to the friendly and lively atmosphere. 

Following the sports activities, a group discussion called “World Café” was held. The theme was “What do young people need nowadays?” Although the topic was challenging, each participant gave serious thought to it, and many creative ideas were shared. Participants communicated not only in Japanese and English but also in Chinese, Spanish, and other languages. 

After dinner, a “dinner talk” and “penlight art” session took place. These activities are designed to deepen the bonds of friendship. 

Day 2: 

After breakfast, the activities began right away. Despite the rainy weather forecast, the weather turned out to be fine, and participants enjoyed the “Treasure Hunt” outdoors. Teams had to complete various challenges, such as word games, spotting mistakes, and even performing creative dances to unlock a treasure capsule. All teams managed to reach the goal despite the challenges. 

The next activity was the curry-making session. The participants worked together to make a fire using firewood and cooked curry and rice. Each team was responsible for different tasks, such as making a fire, preparing the vegetables, and cooking the rice, which resulted in a variety of delicious curry flavors. Some participants even compared the different flavors they had created. 

The final activity of the camp was a self-introduction session. This was the first time participants revealed their real names, faculties, and academic years. The camp ended on a high note, with many participants expressing their satisfaction, saying things like, “It was a great event” and “I hope it will be held again next time.” 

This year’s MIX UP CAMP was held for the first time in six years. Through the “No Border” concept, all staff members were able to reflect on the true meaning of SIED’s existence, the significance of international exchange, and the purpose of the camp. 

Thank you very much to everyone who participated!