On October 29, 2025, Shikata Learning Community (Shikata L-C) at Okayama University hosted a Welcome Party themed “Latin American Party.” During the event, students from Latin America gave presentations introducing their home countries, led participants in Latin-style dances such as salsa and merengue, and organized a traditional piñata game. The lively activities encouraged active interaction among participants.

In addition, on December 19, a Christmas & Ema Fusion Party was held, combining Christmas traditions with Japanese ema culture. Students wrote wishes for the New Year and decorated a Christmas tree together, enjoying cultural exchange in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The Globalized Voices Partners Program concluded with a final presentation session on February 6, where participating students introduced their partner’s country in their partner’s language, showcasing the achievement of their ten-week exchange.

Shikata L-C also organizes day trips that allow participants to experience traditional Japanese culture. On February 15 we visited the Osafune Sword Museum, the Former Shizutani School, Amatsu Shrine, and Fukusoji Temple.

Shikata Learning Community (Shikata L-C) is a learning and exchange space established on the Shikata Campus as part of Okayama University’s multicultural co-learning initiatives. Originally launched as “Shikata L-Café” approximately ten years ago, the program was renamed to reflect the expansion of its activities and objectives. Shikata L-C aims to promote intercultural understanding through interaction between Japanese and international students, as well as through projects related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Currently, Shikata L-C offers several programs for students interested in studying abroad and intercultural exchange. The Ready to Go Abroad Program supports students planning to participate in exchange programs by providing daily English conversation practice and academic presentation training in English. This program is conducted with the cooperation of Associate Professor Tim Clemmison from the Graduate School of Education (Global Studies), Tsushima Campus.

Another initiative, the Globalized Voices Partners Program, pairs Japanese and international students for weekly one-hour sessions over ten weeks. Each session consists of 30 minutes in English and 30 minutes in Japanese, during which students discuss topics such as daily life, culture, traditions, and customs.

In addition to these programs, Shikata L-C is open weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays from 17:30 to 20:00. During this time, participants can join activities such as survival Chinese and Spanish conversation lessons, Zumba sessions, board games, and free interaction. These weekly activities provide an open and welcoming environment where anyone can easily take part.

For the latest updates, please visit Shikata L-C’s official Instagram account and our Facebook page.