As we transition into a new academic year this April, we reflect on an eventful 2023 and anticipate the opportunities that 2024 holds for our students, especially those who have navigated their academic journey from the onset of their education in 2020 through the challenges of COVID-19, to studying abroad in 2022. As we continued throughout the year, it was a pivotal moment for many, marking the final year for some students. It’s with great honor to guide both returning and new students through an enriching learning experience centered on communication, connections, and the vibrant creativity and dynamism of the city.
In 2023, students embarked on significant academic endeavors, delving into new research projects aimed at addressing pressing contemporary issues such as the challenges facing post-pandemic public spaces, the quest for urban sustainability and diversity, and enhancing urban-rural linkages. These projects are crucial for understanding the common and distinct problems of urban and rural Japan. Our academic year was enriched with a variety of initiatives, including:
- Seminar Cities, Culture, and Everyday Life
- Research Project Tokyo Diversity
- Investigations into “Subculture Spaces”,
- Studies on “Urban-Rural Linkages (Rethinking Rural Japan)”,
- And fostering “Critical Thinking towards Sustainability”.
As 2023 unfolded, students reached significant milestones in their research endeavors. They completed their initial findings by the first semester, refining their research questions in the following term. This process involved extensive data collection and analysis, culminating in the summarization of their insights in their final graduation thesis. The year was also marked by increased engagement with the outside world, including professional meetings, guest lectures, exploratory walks around Tokyo, and a seminar trip, enriching their academic and practical understanding of the subjects at hand.
Looking ahead to 2024, we aim to build on this foundation with plans to deepen our exploration of the critical themes introduced. The focus will be on advancing our understanding of how urban and rural dynamics interplay with cultural and sustainability issues in Japan. We will continue to support our students in their academic and research pursuits, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to achieve their full potential. This year promises to be another step forward in our continuous effort to contribute to the broader discourse on urbanism, sustainability, and societal well-being.