Kanda Institute Students Deliver Bilingual Disaster Recovery Newspaper to Government

Celebrating Progress: Students Deliver Bilingual Disaster Recovery Newspaper

In a significant milestone commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear disaster, students from Kanda Institute of Foreign Languages (KIFL) in Chiyoda, Tokyo, have produced a bilingual disaster recovery newspaper titled "Together with Fukushima". This initiative is part of their ongoing "Disaster Recovery Communication Project," aimed at promoting global understanding of Fukushima's recovery journey.

On March 4, 2026, the completed newspaper, developed by 19 students from Professor Shinichi Shibata's seminar, will be presented to Japan's Reconstruction Agency. Alongside this, they will also gift a specially brewed recovery beer, designed as another avenue to share their learnings and insights from interviews in the Hamadori region where they explored the themes of recovery, new industries, and local specialties.

The Disaster Recovery Communication Project

Since signing a comprehensive partnership agreement with Fukushima Prefecture in 2023, KIFL has been advancing educational activities to strengthen ties with the region. The student's project, spearheaded by Professor Shinichi Shibata's seminar class, serves as a platform where young scholars explore the past, present, and future of Fukushima firsthand.

During their field study in August 2025, these students engaged with local industries and communities, gathering insights that informed the creation of their bilingual newspaper. This project is part of a broader initiative that aims to convey an authentic perspective on the region’s recovery, focusing not just on governmental and business efforts, but also highlighting personal stories and local voices.

On January 26, 2026, they presented an early version of the newspaper to the Governor of Fukushima, Masao Uchibori, along with a sampling of the recovery beer. Additionally, the students participated in an online presentation on February 17, 2026, to Budi Luhur University in Indonesia, sharing their learnings to an international audience, thereby transcending borders in the message of recovery.

Features of the Bilingual Newspaper

The bilingual newspaper, "Together with Fukushima," is crafted to resonate with both Japanese and international readers, ensuring that the essence of Fukushima's current condition is effectively communicated. The sections are thoughtfully designed, balancing the local narratives with engaging content that reflects the ongoing journey of recovery.

Notably, the English version was developed with careful consideration to make it palatable for foreign readers, drawing from the original Japanese content while adapting idiomatic expressions and structural elements to maximize clarity and engagement.

Introduction of the Recovery Beer "Kirei ALE"

Complementing the newspaper, the recovery beer "Kirei ALE" serves as a creative channel for promoting Fukushima. Collaboratively produced with the Hiroshimachi Promotion Corporation and brewed by Taiho Brewery, students engaged actively in the development process, ensuring that the flavors captured the essence of the region.

The beer features bananas from Hiroshimachi, a local fruit symbolizing resilience and beauty in the wake of recovery. The design of the beer label was also crafted by students, fittingly featuring a QR code for easy access to the newspaper's digital version, allowing consumers to dive deeper into the narratives of Fukushima.

Kirei ALE will be available at various sales points, including the restaurant "HANEDA SKY BREWING" operated by Taiho Brewery, ensuring that the story of Fukushima reaches diverse audiences.

Upcoming Presentation Ceremony Overview

Date:

Scheduled for March 4, 2026, in the morning (exact time to be confirmed).

Venue:

Reconstruction Agency, Minister's Office.

Expected Attendees:

Key figures such as Minister for Reconstruction Kyōsuke Makino, Yoshiharu Kawamoto from Jonan Shinkin Bank, and officials from Kanda Institute and Taiho Brewery will join the event, marking a significant occasion to celebrate the achievements of students.

Ceremony Highlights:

- Presentation of the newspaper and recovery beer.
- Photographs and discussions between students and the Minister of Reconstruction.

Through the Disaster Recovery Communication Project, Kanda Institute continues to foster a meaningful connection between students and the community of Fukushima. By giving voice to local stories and leveraging educational initiatives, they are not only enhancing their own learning but also contributing to the broader discourse on disaster recovery.

For further details on this initiative and Kanda Institute's activities, visit: