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Introduction to the Summer Program

The Summer Program, titled "Agricultural Engineering and Cultural Experiences in Kobe," was conducted from June 2 to June 27, 2025. This four-week program hosted 6 students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL).

Week 1: Japanese Language, Culture, and Cross-Cultural Understanding Program

During the first week, students focused on learning Japanese language and culture, as well as cross-cultural understanding. Lectures were delivered by Kobe University's lecturers, and many Japanese students from the university participated in these lectures. Through conversation practice in Japanese, discussions about cross-cultural topics in both Japanese and English, and presentations, participants deepened their understanding of Japan and each other's cultures and languages.

Week 2: Special Lectures

In the second week, the program welcomed Dr. Brian Woodall from the Georgia Institute of Technology (GT) and Dr. Sangjin Ryu from UNL to deliver special lectures. Students from UNL and Kobe University participated together in classes, learning about "Energy, Environment, and Society" by Dr. Brian Woodall and "Academic Writing" by Dr. Sangjin Ryu. Discussions on global issues with the SDGs in mind, along with presentations by international and Japanese students, were conducted with keen interest and enthusiasm.

• Presentation by UNL and Kobe University students on natural disasters and disaster prevention in Japan and Nebraska

Week 3-4: Lab Experiences, a Tour of the Kubota Factory, and a Visit to the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko

During the final two weeks, lab experiences were conducted in two separate sessions. Three students from IPB University, a partner institution, joined the program. Divided into three groups, they conducted experiments and practical training in six laboratories belonging to the Division of Agricultural Engineering and Socio-Economics, Graduate School of Agricultural Science. The program also provided opportunities to learn about Japanese history, culture, and industry through excursions, including a tour of the Kubota factory and a visit to the Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko.

Final Day: Group Presentations on Lab Experiences and Farewell Party

On the final day, participating international students presented the outcomes of their lab experiences in groups. Each presentation showcased experiences tailored to the unique characteristics of their respective laboratories. Engaging with research outside their primary fields sparked innovative ideas, resulting in highly interesting presentations from every group. Furthermore, through various activities including classes, lab experiences, and excursions, the students deepened their bonds.

Program Overview

The "Summer School of Agricultural Engineering and Cultural Experiences in Kobe" was part of the "International Interdisciplinary Collaboration Program for Global Human Resource Development to solve global issues through Food-related Science, Business and Culture," adopted under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) Inter-University Exchange Project.

Future Developments

Starting next academic year, the program will further expand its international student acceptance system. This includes offering lab experiences in departments beyond the Division of Agricultural Engineering and Socio-Economics, and inviting participation from other overseas partner universities.