Mr. John Gaipai Victor Salah, our former exchange student from University of Rwanda, who studied in Japan from September 2025 to August 2026 wrote an essay of his stay in Japan.
Please check it out!!
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Exchange Program Report
My name is John Gaipai Victor Salah, a student of Peace and Conflict Studies in the Faculty of Development Studies at the Protestant University of Rwanda. From September 2025 to August 2026, I had the privilege of participating in a one-year exchange program at the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS) in Japan. Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to give thanks to the people who took part in the crowdfunding that helped me to come and study here, and also give my thanks to the JASSO scholarship program for supporting my study program in Japan. Additionally, I would like to extend my gratitude to the African Study Center at TUFS for their continuous support and guidance towards my stay at TUFS. So, looking back, I can confidently say that this exchange program has been one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my academic and personal life.
One of the greatest strengths of my exchange experience was the opportunity to study a wide variety of interdisciplinary courses. Coming from a background in peace and conflict studies, I found that TUFS offered courses that not only complemented my academic interests but also challenged me to think more critically about international issues and contemporary global challenges. And in that case, I took so many courses such as Global and Local Society, International Cooperation II: Migrations Today, International Cooperation II: Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA), Aspects of Japanese History II, and several interesting courses that expanded my academic horizon. Moreover, something interesting that I learned was that the course introduced me to new perspectives, insights, and different points of view on global affairs and how students can examine complex issues based on their understanding and possibly propose a solution on how complex matters can be handled.
Additionally, although academics formed the foundation of my exchange program, some of the most valuable lessons I learned also came from experiences outside the classroom. Studying here was not only about attending lectures or completing assignments; it was also about engaging with people, participating in community life, and experiencing a culture from within. At the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS), I was fortunate to have many opportunities that enriched my understanding of Japan and strengthened my connections with people from different parts of the world. So, beyond academics, I also participated in extracurricular activities that helped me feel connected to university life. One of these was joining the university soccer club. Football has always been more than just a sport; it is a universal language that brings people together regardless of nationality or language. Whether playing indoor matches or practicing with fellow students, I found out that sports created friendships naturally, and it was actually easy for me to make friends. Even when we could not communicate fluently in the same language, teamwork, encouragement, and shared enjoyment on the field allowed us to build meaningful relationships.
Lastly, the Student Exchange Division at TUFS organized several cultural and social activities that enabled international students to experience Japanese culture beyond the university campus. One memorable activity was the Jindaiji Walk, which provided an opportunity to explore one of Tokyo's historic areas while learning about its cultural significance. Walking through peaceful streets, observing traditional architecture, and enjoying conversations with fellow students allowed me to appreciate a quieter and more traditional side of Japan that differs from the fast-paced image often associated with cities like Tokyo.
To conclude, as my exchange program at the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies draws to a close, I find myself reflecting not only on the places I have visited or the courses I have completed but also on the person I have become throughout this journey. So, looking back to the day I first arrived in Japan, I realize that I came with curiosity, hope, and a desire to learn. And today, as I prepare to return home, I carry with me something much greater than academic credits. I leave with new knowledge, lasting friendships, broader perspectives, and a renewed sense of purpose. Which will therefore prepare me to confidently engage with society in a more open-minded way, I also believe that this knowledge will highly contribute to my future career and community engagement. Therefore, I'm true greatful for all the time that I spent here, studying and meeting with some nice people to the end that I have been and creating everlasting memories.