Espoir Bohohya MAJALIWA, our former exchange student from Protestant University of Rwanda (PUR), who studied in Japan from September 2024 to July 2025 wrote an essay of his stay in Japan.
Please check it out!!
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1.Introduction
My name is Majaliwa Bohohya Espoir, I am from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, student at the Protestant University of Rwanda majoring in Peace and Conflict Studies. From October 2024 to July 2025, I had the opportunity to pursue academic studies at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS) as an exchange student. This report outlines my academic achievements during my stay in Japan and reflects on the experiences that contributed to my personal, academic, and professional growth.
2. Academic Activities and Achievements
Studying at TUFS has significantly enriched my academic journey through various academic activities both inside and outside the classroom. Most of the courses required research and presentations, which provided hands-on learning opportunities that complemented theoretical lessons. As one of the few African students in culturally-focused classes, I often felt responsible for representing the entire African continent, which pushed me to conduct thorough and culturally sensitive research. In the subject of Communication Studies 1 by Annette Karseras, we wrote weekly academic reflections based on The Culture Map by Erin Meyer, where I frequently compared the insights with Congolese cultural perspectives, thereby enhancing both my analytical skills and my ability to share Congolese culture with peers. In the subject of Aspects of Contemporary Japan 2 led by Prof. O'Brian, I carried out fieldwork on social behavior in Japanese trains, focusing on the stretch between Tama and Akishima stations. This project, grounded in observation and literature review, strengthened my research methodology and deepened my understanding of Japanese public norms. In Peace and Conflict Studies 4 with Prof. Katoh Tamahi, I presented academic work on the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, raising awareness among an international student body and emphasizing the global significance of local conflicts. Additionally, in the Japanese Cinema course, I collaborated with a team to create a short film, which was honored with the "Best Supportive Actors" award on July 13, a rewarding recognition of our creativity and teamwork.
3. Extracurricular Academic Engagements
Beyond on-campus academics, I actively engaged in external academic events that enriched my learning experience and broadened my professional network. On October 26, 2024, I attended a symposium at Rikkyo University, marking my first participation in such an event in Japan. Furthermore, I submitted an abstract to the SIETAR Japan Conference in Kyoto, titled "Intercultural Competencies in Peacebuilding: A Comparative Analysis of Japan and the DRC." Although I was unable to attend the conference due to financial limitations, the acceptance of my abstract represented a meaningful academic achievement. From May 3 to 5, I also participated in a three-day workshop on Trauma and Stress Management, organized by the Mbuyava Raphy Foundation. This workshop, facilitated by members of the African academic diaspora in Japan, brought together scholars from the UK, Japan, and Australia, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose in advancing Africa's development. Additionally, I enrolled in several interdisciplinary courses such as Business Communication (taught by Prof. Robert Dunsmore Rab), Sustainability Studies, and the Peace Education COIL program, all of which broadened my academic perspective and deepened my understanding of global challenges and innovative solutions.
4. Skills and Knowledge Gained
Throughout this program, I developed a range of valuable academic and professional skills. My intercultural competence was significantly enhanced through both classroom instruction and daily interactions within a diverse, multicultural environment. I strengthened my research abilities through ethnographic fieldwork, academic writing, and oral presentations, which also contributed to the development of my analytical thinking by encouraging me to engage with complex global perspectives and socio-political issues. Regular assignments, critical reflections, and structured research tasks helped me refine my academic writing skills. Additionally, I improved my language proficiency by learning basic Japanese, which enabled me to introduce myself, ask essential questions, and communicate in everyday situations. My English skills also advanced through frequent academic use and interactions in an international context.
5. Impact on Personal and Professional Goals
Studying in Japan has boosted my self-confidence and broadened my worldview. Being in such a multicultural environment has strengthened my belief in my ability to succeed in international settings. The experience helped me build a strong academic and professional network, which I believe will guide me in future endeavors. I now feel more prepared to work in international organizations, especially those focused on peacebuilding and intercultural dialogue.
6. Gratitude and Acknowledgment
I express my heartfelt thanks to Protestant University of Rwanda for selecting me for this Program , to Tokyo University of Foreign Studies for hosting and guiding me during this program, and to YAZAKI Corporation which offered me the round trip air ticket from Rwanda to Japan, to JASSO for financially supporting my participation. I also extend my gratitude to professors and fellow students who supported me throughout the program. Your guidance, collaboration, and encouragement made this journey impactful.
7.Conclusion
My exchange year at TUFS has been a transformative academic and personal journey. The diverse courses, academic challenges, cultural immersion, and international engagements have significantly contributed to my development. I leave Japan with new knowledge, strengthened skills, valuable networks, and deep appreciation for Japanese education and culture. I look forward to applying these values to my future academic and professional work, particularly in peace and conflict resolution.