At 日本語の庭, our mission goes beyond the realms of traditional language learning; we strive to create immersive experiences that integrate the richness of Japanese culture into the fabric of everyday life. As we cast our gaze back on the tapestry of 2023, we find that the events that defined our language club's journey over the last year were not merely academic milestones, but also transformative moments that resonated with the essence of the communal spirit we're trying to foster.
Academic Accomplishments
As always, we are so proud of all our students who wrote their Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). Their success echos the dedication and passion that all of those who wrote their JLPT exams displayed. Many of these students pushed themselves to impressive lengths, which evolved into a shared journey where even students not participating in the JLPTs were exposed to some amazing questions and linguistic nuances. This is exactly the kind of teaching environment we enjoy best, as we believe language learning transcends the boundaries of rote study. どうもありがとうございます to all our students for encouraging this great inter-class dynamic within your groups. It not only showcases your individual passions, but also allows us to expand our knowledge and grow with you.
Several members of 日本語の庭 also set out in pursuit of the prestigious MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) scholarship program, taking the plunge and venturing to deepen their understanding of Japan through academic endeavours in the land of the Rising Sun itself.
At its core, the MEXT scholarship is a Japanese governmental initiative designed to foster international understanding and cooperation. It opens doors for individuals who aspire to pursue higher education in Japan, ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, offering deserving scholars the ability to both live and study in Japan. Whether it's unraveling the layers of traditional arts, engaging in research projects, or simply embracing the day-to-day life in Japan, the MEXT scholars become ambassadors of cross-cultural exchange.
We are incredibly proud of all who attempted the truly rigorous application process. While the final outcome remains to be seen, we are all holding thumbs for Ugo, who made it all the way to the final interview stage, along with two other candidates, as they represent the African continent.
日本語の庭 Arts & Crafts Workshop
It's not all work and no play though! We all had a wonderful time at our annual school-wide end-of-year event. 2023 saw 日本語の庭 present a traditional Japanese Arts & Crafts workshop. We invited Origami for Africa to teach an introductory course on the ancient Japanese art of paper folding. They are an amazing local non-profit outreach program who share their love of origami with disadvantaged communities, infusing the local creative spirit into the delicate artistry of origami.
日本語の庭 then presented a course on the ancient Japanese craft of Kimekomi (木目込み), and each of the participants made their own kimekomi mari ornaments to take home, adorned with exquisite Japanese fabrics showcasing each student's unique eye for design. We all had a great time at the event, and it was lovely to see all those who could attend!
10th Annual Japan Day
Finally, to wrap up the year, we once again had the honour of being invited to participate as vendors in the annual Japan Day festival, hosted by the Embassy of Japan in Cape Town. The festival offered a melting pot of Japanese traditions, culinary delights (including delicious taiyaki! :o), and cultural displays, even highlighting some lesser-known Japanese tidbits with the festival's 'Japanese New Year' theme. We at 日本語の庭 even incorporated a QR scavenger hunt into the day's festivities, as we sent participants scurrying around the festival grounds in search of several parts of a Japanese New Year's phrase, which - when said to us at our stall - would grant the sleuths 20% off their first month of classes!
As we connected with familiar faces from past and present, the festival highlighted once again just how inclusive and warm spirited the Japan-loving community of Cape Town is, and how wonderful a celebration of all-things-Japaneses can be.
Farewells & New Beginnings
While we will be bidding farewell to several members of our school, we congratulate them for embarking on such exciting new adventures, and we wish them well as they settle into their new lives in Japan. We are so happy for you, that you have brought these dreams to fruition, and we extend heartfelt best wishes for all that comes next. 強く生きてください。
As we turn the pages and settle in to new year, we carry with us a collective enthusiasm for the ongoing exploration of Japanese language and culture. For those completing another cycle with us, and for all those just starting out on the journey, here's to a year of growth, camaraderie, and taking those valuable steps towards your Nihongo goals! がんばっていい仕事を続けてください。
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