Report about 12th Retreat
By Hiroshi Touyama, the Chairperson of the Youth Activity Committee
Theme: Let’s walk the Crossing of Cultures Hand in Hand
This year’s retreat was held from July 26th to 28th in a village called
Wada, Nagano Prefecture as usual. We were afraid that the number of the
participants would be small because students were taking exams over this
time. To our surprise, however, 67 people from 17 countries actually joined
us (there were 21 exchange students, 32 Japanese, 8 students of UNESCO
School and 6 lecturers and advisors).
On the first day we left Nakam
eguro Sq. a little bitlater than planned. Fortunately, none missed the
bus. At the opening ceremony, all the participants eagerly listened to
the introduction of national flags. Looking at their eyes, I was somehow
encouraged. Breaking the ice, we had dinner and a lecture by Tajima Sensei.
Prepared carefully, the well-arranged lecture was profound. I felt the
need to expand our understanding of the world to real international cooperation
and to further solidarity.
On the second day, we had a discussion after breakfast and a presentation
after lunch. We tackled five big and abstract topics this year. When discussing,
we divided ourselves further into two groups, A and B. Since there were
many groups, the time for each to give a presentationwas short. Some gave unique
talks. Hattori Sensei gave comments on each presentation and issues. We.
We thoroughly enjoyed ourse
lves as the discussions heated up and sharp questions were asked. In the
afternoon we had time for recreation and a small athletic meet among groups.
We did various sports, ranging from running, to things that need timing.
We relaxed and enjoyed ourselves. As last year, “God of Fire” began the
campfire entertainment. We sang, danced, talked a lot and some short sketches
(contes) were also performed. Singing this year’s theme song “Let’s
Walk while Looking at the Sky” together, we had our photos taken.
On the third day, we exchanged our opinions with students from other
countries about environmental issues. This topic was raised from Hattori
Sensei’s lecture, which insisted on the importance of the environment.
With what they learn
ed in mind, each joined the closing ceremony.
I learned quite different things this year from what I learnt last year
when I was also a staff member. Though some things can be improved, the
Retreat was successful. I couldn’t imagine that it would be such a success
because some of the staff of this year had never participated before. The
best thing that occurred to me by being a staff member is that I’ve got
precious friends.
Caption: From left above
under 17 national flags :Lighting the campfire: how many can go aboard
the small Earth?:Scene of lecture: