Kanto Gakuin University Students Engage in a Week of Learning and Cultural Immersion at Yunus Center AIT
From September 7 to 14, 2024, students from Kanto Gakuin University in Japan participated in the World Study Program at Yunus Center AIT in Thailand. This week-long program, designed to foster global citizenship and social responsibility, blended educational lectures, cultural immersion, and community service. Through hands-on experiences, students gained valuable insights into social entrepreneurship, culture, and community empowerment.
The program kicked off with an inaugural session led by Prof. Fiaz Shah, Executive Director of Yunus Center AIT. Prof. Fiaz highlighted the significance of immersive learning, emphasizing how such experiences broaden students' perspectives and prepare them to become global citizens. He urged the students to remain curious and open-minded throughout their stay, advising them to document each moment and reflect on the lessons they encountered.
Prof. Fiaz also introduced the concept of Social Business, explaining how sustainable business models can address social challenges and improve lives globally. He stressed that engaging with diverse cultures and real-world experiences not only enhances academic learning but also fosters personal growth.
Following his address, Ms. Saw Theint Theint Htet, Program Operation Manager at Yunus Center AIT, introduced the students to the 3 Zero Club, an initiative founded by Professor Muhammad Yunus. Focused on achieving Zero Poverty, Zero Unemployment, and Zero Net Carbon Emissions, the club encourages small, community-based projects. Students were encouraged to align their interests with the club's mission, fostering a mindset of sustainability and social responsibility.
Additionally, Prof. Vilas Nitivattananon, Urban Innovation and Sustainability (UIS) School ofEnvironment, Resources, and Development (SERD), AIT, delivered a brief lecture on Sustainable Urban Development, focusing on the challenges and opportunities in urban planning within the Bangkok Metropolitan Region and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). He emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable practices in infrastructure development to create resilient urban environments.
Lecture Section
Field Survey and Cultural Exchange in Bangkok
On September 10, students participated in a field survey in Bangkok, visiting the Khlong Toei Local Community. There, they witnessed how local artists continue to create art despite physical challenges, demonstrating the power of creativity and resilience in underserved communities. This visit provided students with insights into how art serves as a tool for empowerment and social expression.
In the afternoon, the students visited Srinakharinwirot University for a cultural exchange with Thai students. They were introduced to various aspects of Thai culture, including traditional rice dishes, dining etiquette, and traditional attire. In return, Kanto Gakuin students shared elements of Japanese culture, such as Mizuhiki (an ancient art of decorative knot-tying), Japanese idols, and calligraphy. This exchange fostered mutual respect and appreciation for each other's cultures, making it one of the highlights of the week.
Community Service: Rescue Kitchen Program
On September 11, the students participated in the Rescue Kitchen Program, organized by the Scholars of Sustenance Foundation. This program redistributes surplus food from restaurants, hotels, and grocery stores to local communities in need.
Students started the day learning proper techniques for chopping vegetables and meats under the guidance of Rescue Kitchen volunteers. After mastering these skills, they moved on to washing ingredients and assisting with the cooking process. Throughout the day, volunteers emphasized values such as teamwork, discipline, and patience. The students then packed and distributed the meals to local communities, gaining practical experience in food security and understanding the importance of reducing food waste.
Rescue Kitchen
Cultural and Historical Immersion in Ayutthaya
On September 12, the students embarked on a cultural and historical tour of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of Thailand. Their tour included key landmarks such as Wat Yai Chaimongkol, where students learned about the temple’s historical and cultural significance, and the Ayutthaya Floating Market, where they explored traditional Thai crafts and foods.
The students also visited the Ayutthaya Elephant Village, gaining insight into the symbolic and historical role of elephants in Thai culture. Their final stop was Wat Mahathat, known for the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
This offered the students a deeper understanding of Thailand's ancient capital and spiritual heritage. The day concluded with a cultural exchange and dinner at Ruean San Nam Restaurant, where students enjoyed traditional Thai cuisine while overlooking the tranquil Chao Phraya River.
Ayutthaya Trip
Student Presentations and Closing Ceremony
The final day of the World Study Program, September 13, began with student presentations. The students were divided into two groups: the first presented on Rabies and Precautionary Measures, discussing the risks and how to prevent rabies, while the second group focused on Food Waste, sharing global challenges and solutions to combat it. These presentations allowed the students to showcase their learning while addressing critical global issues.
After the presentations, the certificate ceremony recognized the students’ contributions and achievements throughout the week. Dr. Kozue Kashiwazaki, Associate Professor at Kanto Gakuin University, reflected on how the program had broadened the students’ perspectives on global issues. She highlighted the immersive experiences had enriched their understanding far beyond the classroom, equipping them with valuable tools to navigate the complexities of an interconnected world.
Dr. Tanawan Samleerat Carraway, Senior Program Specialist at Yunus Center AIT, emphasized the importance of social business in fostering social development and improving lives. She spoke of Professor Muhammad Yunus’ legacy in the social business movement, and how students could apply these principles of sustainability and inclusion in their own communities. Dr. Carraway reminded the students that even small actions can have a significant impact and inspire broader change.
Certification Ceremony
Building Global Citizens for a Sustainable Future
The World Study Program provided Kanto Gakuin University students with a rich blend of educational, cultural, and service-oriented experiences. Through these activities, students gained a greater appreciation for their role in fostering global citizenship and social responsibility.
Yunus Center AIT looks forward to continuing its partnership with Kanto Gakuin University, welcoming future students to explore the intersection of education, culture, and social impact.