#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Japanese Language #CLS Program

Opening Ceremony of CLS Program at Okayama University

On June 12, 2025, Okayama University held the opening ceremony for the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program, organized by the U.S. Department of State. This initiative brings exceptional undergraduate and graduate students from across the United States to learn foreign languages and cultures intensively. Since being selected as the only host institution in Japan for this program in 2019, Okayama University continues to welcome these talented students every year. In the current session, 25 students are invited to stay at the Tsushima campus from June 13 to August 6, engaging in around eight weeks of Japanese language and cultural studies.

The ceremony commenced with welcoming remarks from Seiji Suga, the director of educational affairs, followed by Okayama University's President Motoyuki Nasu. He shared insights from his own study abroad experience, encouraging the students to seize the opportunity: "Every experience during your exchange is valuable, and it has significantly influenced my career. I hope you all will have similar experiences. By the end of this program, I expect you to think and converse in Japanese. Good luck!"

Following President Nasu's speech, each CLS student introduced themselves. Mairen Thompson, representing the CLS students, expressed her goals, stating, "My aim is not only to learn Japanese but also to engage with the local community and gain cultural experiences. Let’s make every moment count and collaborate for success!"

Messages from previous CLS alumni, Kian Thomas and Abigail Fowler, who graduated in 2019 and 2023 respectively, were shared via video, highlighting the long-lasting impact of the CLS experience on their personal and professional lives.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Atsufumi Yokoi, deputy president and CLS executive director. He reaffirmed the importance of the program in fostering international relationships and cultural exchanges.

In addition to Japanese language classes, the CLS program includes specialized courses such as making herbarium samples, rice planting experiences, and harvesting Okayama peaches in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture. Students are paired with Okayama University students for language exchange and will stay in the university's international student share house, living with Japanese roommates.

Additionally, extracurricular activities are designed to promote sustainable development goals (SDGs). Participants will engage with the local community at Kyoyama Community Center, address industrial waste issues in Toshima, and learn about the historical town development in Yakage through interviews and presentations focused on cultivating sustainable societies.

Okayama University is committed to being a significant research institution that fosters regional collaboration and global citizenship. The CLS program is an excellent opportunity for participants to immerse themselves not only in language but also in local culture, sustainability, and community building, paving the way for future global leaders.

About the CLS Program

The Critical Language Scholarship Program, administered by the U.S. Department of State, aims to develop a pool of American citizens fluent in critical foreign languages, including Russian, Chinese, Japanese, among others. Launched in 2010, the program is coordinated through the American Councils for International Education, focusing on fostering international education and exchanges.

Keep an eye on Okayama University’s innovative initiatives and programs like CLS that strengthen its role as a regional hub and distinctive research university.