BY ALICE T CAMPBELL
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is seeing growing interest in its Japanese language programme, with 229 students currently enrolled this semester in Japanese Introductory 1 and 2.
The classes, introduced in August last year through a partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), were initially offered only to SINU staff and student, a statement from Solomon Islands National University (SINU) this week said.
The statement said the language program since opened to the public has been free of charge, giving more people the opportunity to learn conversational Japanese and explore Japanese culture.
The programme provides participants with the opportunity to learn conversational Japanese, while also gaining insight into Japanese culture, manners, and ways of thinking.
While the classes do not carry university academic credit, successful students who complete the required coursework will receive a certificate of completion issued by JICA, the statement said.
Japanese language instructor Mrs. Naomi Shinagawa said the programme’s goal is to encourage cultural exchange while creating important opportunities for students and the wider society.
“I hope these classes will give students a chance to explore Japanese language and culture, support the tourism industry, and open opportunities for study, work, or training in Japan,” Mrs. Shinagawa said.
Although enrolment for this semester has closed, the classes will continue, and she looks forward to welcoming more students in the future.
Plans are also underway to introduce a new course titled “Japanese for Tourism” next semester, focusing on practical Japanese language skills for the hospitality and tourism industry.
The statement said learning Japanese provides students and the public with valuable skills that can support career opportunities in tourism, hospitality, education, and international exchange.
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