#Japan #Disaster Recovery #Fukushima #Kanda Gaigo

Students from Kanda Gaigo University Present Disaster Recovery Newspaper to Fukushima

In a commendable effort to mark the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the associated nuclear disaster, students from Kanda Gaigo University have been actively involved in a project to raise awareness of Fukushima's ongoing recovery efforts. On January 26, 2026, they will present the English-Japanese newspaper titled "Together with Fukushima" to the local authorities in the affected region, showcasing stories and experiences gathered during their field study.

The project, led by Professor Shinichi Shibata's seminar class, consists of 19 diligent students who engaged with the Fukushima community. They collected firsthand accounts of both the ongoing recovery and the thriving activities taking place in the region. Their hard work culminated in a bilingual newspaper that reflects not only the administrative efforts and industry developments but also the personal narratives of the residents impacted by the disaster.

The initiative, part of Kanda Gaigo Group’s broader collaboration with Fukushima Prefecture, emphasizes educational engagement and aims to cultivate global talent through real-world experiences. Since signing a comprehensive cooperation agreement with Fukushima in 2023, the university has fostered a meaningful connection by providing students with the opportunity to visit and understand the complexities of life in the region.

A Newspaper of Voices

The newspaper, "福島とともに" ("Together with Fukushima"), goes beyond mere statistics and institutional responses. It is designed to present a multi-dimensional portrayal of the present-day realities faced by the people of Fukushima. The students' goal is to ensure that the voices of those living in Fukushima resonate clearly, both in Japan and overseas. The English version of the newspaper not only retains the essence of the Japanese content but has been tailored to engage international audiences effectively.

In conjunction with this paper, the students will also present a special craft beer named "綺麗ALE" (Kirei ALE). This unique beverage serves as both a tribute to and a conversation starter about the ongoing recovery efforts. The beer is crafted using locally sourced ingredients, specifically bananas from Hirono Town, which symbolize the natural beauty and resilience of the area. Students collaborated closely with brewers and designed the label to include a QR code linking to the digital version of the newspaper, driving further engagement and understanding of Fukushima’s journey post-disaster.

The presentation ceremony will be significant, as it will be attended by key dignitaries, including the Governor of Fukushima Prefecture, Masao Inaburi. Students will have the honor of handing over the newspaper directly to him, symbolizing their bond with the local community and commitment to sharing tales of hope and tenacity.

Reflections from Participants

Riku Seguchi, a third-year student majoring in International Communication, highlighted the importance of personal stories in conveying the complexity of recovery. “Recovery from disaster cannot be summarized by numbers alone; it’s about the human spirit and collective memories,” he expressed, emphasizing their goal of giving a voice to people living in Fukushima through both the newspaper and the beer.

Professor Shibata echoed this sentiment, noting how the present generation of students perceived the disaster as a distant event from their childhood memories. Their involvement in this initiative, however, has transformed it into a deeply personal and urgent matter, engaging them in meaningful dialogues about their country's past and future.

This project not only represents an academic endeavor for Kanda Gaigo University but also serves as a poignant reminder of human resilience, community ties, and the importance of shared stories in healing and growth.

As they prepare for the upcoming presentation, the students are enthusiastic about sharing their insights and experiences gained from the Fukushima community, aiming to encourage a global audience to recognize and support the region's recovery. The completion of this project marks a critical step, but the journey to promote Fukushima's ongoing story of resilience is just beginning.

Upcoming Presentation Ceremony

The presentation is scheduled for January 26, 2026, at the Fukushima Prefectural Office. The event will not only showcase the student newspapers but will also set the stage for discussions among community leaders and participants regarding the future of Fukushima’s recovery efforts. This collaborative endeavor demonstrates the power of education and community engagement in tackling the challenges faced by regions in recovery.