Learning Support Activity for Children with Foreign Roots @ Hitachinaka (Saturday, December 27)

On Saturday, December 27, students from Ibaraki University collaborated with the Hitachinaka International Association to provide learning support for children with foreign roots living in Hitachinaka City. Seven students from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Education, and the College of Science joined ten elementary and junior high school students for a day filled with smiles during the winter break.

In the morning, the university students helped the children with their winter vacation homework. Some worked on paper drills, others used tablets, and some focused on completing calligraphy assignments. Calligraphy can be a challenging task to tackle at home, but with the support of the university students, the children were able to write bold, dynamic characters—a scene that left a lasting impression.

The afternoon was dedicated to fun activities prepared by the university students. There were booths for making “Ton-Ton Sumo” and “Menko” with origami, creating “Fukuwarai” for lots of laughs, playing kanji and hiragana card games, and designing original New Year’s cards. The two hours flew by as the children enjoyed each activity to the fullest. As they left, many said, “That was so much fun!” and “I want to do this again next year.” The participating students also shared their excitement, saying, “We were amazed by the children’s energy and would love to join again.”

This initiative not only supports the children’s learning but also provides university students with a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of multicultural coexistence and strengthen ties with the local community. Through ongoing efforts like this, the university and the community will continue working together to promote a society where diversity is embraced.