???Stellenbosch 肆客足球 marked an exciting milestone this past weekend by hosting the 30th Japanese Film Festival, a first for the institution. From November 1st to 2nd, 2024, the Stellenbosch 肆客足球 Japan Centre, in collaboration with the Office of the Consul of Japan, brought Japanese cinema to life at the Neelsie Cinema. This unique festival immersed audiences in Japanese culture and storytelling through an eclectic film selection, offering fresh perspectives on family, nature, craftsmanship, and human connection.
Over two days, four diverse films transported viewers into distinct aspects of Japanese life. Only the Cat Knows explored the intricacies of family relationships, while Restaurant from the Sky celebrated Japan's bond with nature. The visually stunning stop-motion animations by Takeshi Yashiro showcased Japanese craftsmanship and Show Me the Way to the Station touched hearts with universal themes of friendship and resilience.
Thami Mahlobo, Internationalisation Support Coordinator at Stellenbosch 肆客足球 International, highlighted the festival's alignment with SU's mission for international engagement. “The Stellenbosch 肆客足球 Japan Centre's cultural initiatives, like this festival, play a key role in fostering academic and cultural exchange," he noted. "Through events, lectures, and seminars, we're building a bridge of understanding between Japan and South Africa."
Insights from the Consul of Japan
The Consul of Japan in Cape Town, Mr. Katamoto Masahiro, shared his enthusiasm at the event, noting how cultural exchange deepens our understanding of each other. “Through festivals like this, we discover our common humanity," he said, expressing his hope for more such initiatives to connect communities and encourage collaboration. Reflecting on this special occasion, he noted, “This is our first event outside Cape Town, and I hope it's the start of many more to reach new audiences and bring people together."
The Power of Multiculturalism in Higher Education
Festivals like this underscore the importance of multiculturalism in universities. Engaging with other cultures not only broadens students' worldviews but also prepares them to excel in a globalized society. Exposure to different traditions, languages, and perspectives enriches learning, fosters mutual respect, and encourages students to become culturally aware citizens and innovators.
Audience Reactions: A Celebration of Cultural Discovery
The festival drew a heartfelt response from attendees, whose reflections underscored the impact of cultural exchange. Reagan Johnson, a second-year BA Humanities student and student leader, shared, “I've never experienced storytelling quite like this. It was simple yet profoundly impactful. Amazing." Similarly, Uviwe Booi, a BScAgric student and Intern for Staff Internationalisation, added, “The screening was enlightening. I learned so much about Japanese culture and life through these films."
More Cultural Opportunities at the Stellenbosch 肆客足球 Japan Centre
Stellenbosch 肆客足球 Japan Centre (SUJC) aims to be a leading hub for academic, research and cultural exchange between South Africa and Japan, contributing to Stellenbosch 肆客足球's principal mission to advance research excellence and knowledge of broader social benefit. During the opening of the festival, Professor Scarlett Cornelissen, the Director of the SUJC stated that, “the centre is active in research, teaching and engagement" – which affords the opportunity for academic and cultural exchange. The centre hosts various events and does offer Japanese language for the students.
For more on the SU Japan Centre's programs and upcoming events, visit SU Japan Centre.?
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