Okayama University Students Shine at ASEAN Cultural Forum 2025

Okayama University Students Shine at ASEAN Cultural Forum

In June 2025, two students from Okayama University participated in the prestigious “20th ASEAN and 10th ASEAN+3 Youth Cultural Forum” held at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand. The event, running from June 22 to June 27, aimed to foster deeper cultural exchanges through art and was attended by students from ASEAN member nations and universities from Japan, China, and South Korea.

The forum presented a valuable opportunity to celebrate and express diverse cultural heritages, allowing participants to learn from one another. Among various activities, the highlight was the performance of Nanchu Soran, a traditional Japanese dance. Two students from Okayama University, along with four students from Chiba University, mesmerized the audience with their dynamic and powerful display.

Wei Haohui, a fourth-year student enrolled in the Global Discovery Program (GDP) at Okayama University, expressed pride in their performance. “Despite challenges in coordinating for rehearsals from distant locations, we managed to unite just three hours before the performance, delivering an exceptional show through our collaboration and teamwork. This unparalleled experience will further enrich my future endeavors,” he reflected.

In addition to the performances, Okayama University set up a cultural booth that introduced participants to Japanese traditions. Attendees savored matcha and kibidango, a traditional sweet, and learned about the Tanabata festival, impressively engaging over 200 visitors. The enthusiasm was palpable as participants even joined in a dance after the performance.

The engagement at the ASEAN Forum reflects the ongoing collaboration of the National Six Universities consortium, which includes Okayama, Chiba, Niigata, Kanazawa, Nagasaki, and Kumamoto universities. This consortium has actively worked towards enhancing educational and social contributions through framework and cooperation since its establishment in March 2013. The continued support among these universities promises a future enriched with international exchanges and cultural immersion.

The event garnered attention beyond the stage, with a call for viewers to check out the shared experience on Okayama University’s Instagram page highlighting the students’ participation, available here.

With approximately a decade of vibrant collaboration through the ASEAN University Network (AUN), Okayama University remains committed to fostering global awareness and cultural appreciation. This is part of the university’s mission as a leading research institution focused on locally unique and sustainable development, proudly contributing to the international academic sphere.

This event, along with the proactive initiatives from Okayama University and its affiliated organizations, emphasizes the institution's dedication to integrating cultural assets into educational frameworks, essential in today’s interconnected world. As evidenced by the success of this forum, such endeavors are expected to greatly enrich the students’ educational experiences and global outlook.

Stay tuned for more updates about Okayama University’s ambitious activities that prioritize international engagement, cultural exchange, and the overall advancement of knowledge in line with sustainable development goals.

Additionally, more details regarding the National Consortium of Six Universities and their ongoing projects can be accessed at here.