Six National Universities International Education, Research System (International Collaboration Division of the Consortium of Six National Universities in Japan), headed by Okayama University’s Vice President for International Affairs SUZUKI Takayoshi, hosted three-day event from November 29 to December 1, the “ASEAN-Japan Virtual Cultural Exchange Programme 2022”, where students from member universities of ASEAN University Network (AUN) and the Six National Universities deepen their understanding of different cultures and improve their communication skills through various activities together. The program was co-hosted by AUN and The Consortium of Six National Universities in Japan (a university consortium of Chiba University, Niigata University, Kanazawa University, Okayama University, Nagasaki University, and Kumamoto University), with the participation of 60 students from member universities of AUN and the Six National Universities, including KIMURA Mitsuko, a third-year student of Discovery Program for Global Learners at Okayama University.
　At the opening ceremony held on November 29, Vice President Suzuki addressed the participants along with AUN Secretary General Choltis Dhirathiti, saying, "It is unfortunate that we cannot meet face-to-face, but I believe that online interaction also gives us new opportunities and expands our potential to create something interesting. Through the activities planned for the three days, I hope that you will actively think, express your opinions, and try to interact with students of different nationalities and backgrounds that you don’t usually have contact with, while understanding and respecting each other," and he encouraged the participating students.
　The program included lectures by experts on cultural diversity, museum tours and quizzes using Gather.Town (an online videophone service for real-life communication through avatars), and group work to discuss the differences in folktales between ASEAN countries and Japan. On the final day, a workshop was held to create decorations for Loy Krathong, a Thai festival, where participants reflected on this year's events and presented their aspirations for the coming year to each other.
　Based on the partnership agreement, AUN and the Six National Universities have been actively exchanging students through summer and spring programs and co-hosting academic seminars for nearly 10 years. We will continue to promote student and research exchanges in cooperation with member universities and other institutions.

KIMURA Mitsuko‘s comment
　I had many valuable experiences through this 3-day program. I was worried about whether I would be able to communicate well until just before participating, but I was able to enjoy interacting with the wonderful members, and I am glad I participated! One of my best memories was discussing Japanese fairy tale, “The Crane of Gratitude” with members from different countries. I explained to everyone the way of thinking that is unique to Japanese people, and we analyzed and made a presentation together, and it was a very meaningful experience for me to think about fairy tales from a different perspective. On the last day, we had an opportunity to reflect on our respective 2022s while making origami together with the members who had spent the three days together, and although it was short, we were able to get to know each other. I would definitely participate again if I had the chance!

The Consortium of Six National Universities in Japan (SixERS)
The Consortium was established in March 2013 for the purpose of further strengthening the functions of education, academic research, social contribution, etc., promoting the development of human resources who will lead the global society and advancing academic research while respecting their independence and self-reliance.
　
Six National Universities International Education, Research System
Established in The Consortium of Six National Universities in Japan, this division promotes collaboration and cooperation in international activities among the six national universities. The division is headed by Okayama University’s Vice President for International Affairs SUZUKI Takayoshi.

○ ASEAN University Network (AUN)
　An international university federation established in 1995 at the proposal of the 4th ASEAN Summit in 1992. In 2013, The Consortium of Six National Universities in Japan signed a partnership agreement with ASEAN University Network (AUN) and is working to promote student exchanges and internationalize the Six National Universities.