On Tuesday, May 21, 2024, JICE held a Potluck Party for international students and their families living in the Tokyo metropolitan area to build a network among international students beyond universities and nationalities. The party was held at JICE headquarters in a potluck style to enjoy participants’ national dishes.

 The party had been held every year since 2014. However, it was suspended after 2019 due to the spread of the new coronavirus infection. As the first opportunity in five years since 2019, 30 international students and their families from 13 countries attended the party.

During the event, the participants introduced the cuisines of their home countries to each other, participated in games by cross-nationality teams. The warm atmosphere at the party enhanced personal interactions among participants including their children.

 The participating international students commented, “It was wonderful opportunity to be able to meet many international students from other universities”, “I hope the event will be held again soon.” JICE staff members also commented, “I was able to interact with international students from countries I didn't usually get to know”, “To keep track of international students’ academic performance, I regularly meet them at their universities. It was good opportunity to be able to have in-person conversation outside of their campus.”

JICE will continue to provide opportunities for international students to learn about Japan through participation in various events, and to enrich their study in Japan by connecting with other international students across national borders.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 NOMURA Yusuke

Management Division, International Student Programs Department I