Learning from International Aid Theater

Testimonies from people engaging with international society with a new approach

At the Special Intercultural Lecture, we used to hold classes where you could hear from those who have worked in the intercultural field, but thanks to the contribution of the JICA Hyogo International Center, we have been holding JICA Serial Lectures from 2005. This lecture is characterized by the opportunity to hear honest opinions on the subject of new aid policies from those who worked on the scene of international aid based on their professional experience. They have proven very popular with students searching for a closer link with international society.

2012 Special Intercultural Lecture [JICA Serial Lecture]

In our increasingly globalized world, the Earth’s many problems (war, global warming, diseases, poverty, food and water shortages, and more) quickly cross borders and spread across the entire world.
There are over 160 developing nations and regions in the world, and they hold roughly 80% of the world’s population.
This lecture examines the many problems that international aid faces, and how each person can assist on a personal level.

Contents of the classes

Guidance
ODA and climate change (Foreign Ministry)
JICA activities overview (JICA)
Lectures by development subject [1] Farming and agricultural community development (JICA)
Lectures by development subject [2] Education (JICA)
Lectures by development subject [3] Private sector development (JICA)
JICA cooperative projects with civic participation (JICA)
JICA volunteer projects (Young Men’s Overseas Cooperation Association Inc.)
Interim Review (Obirin University/JICA)
Various actors in international cooperation [1] Development consultants (Overseas Consulting Enterprises Inc.)
Various actors in international cooperation [2] NGOs (PHD association)
Various actors in international cooperation [3] Private enterprises (Ryohin Keikaku Corporation)
Various actors in international cooperation [2] Private enterprises (Panasonic Corporation)

Student’s impression

The Intercultural Special Lecture provides a rare opportunity to hear the voices of those who work on the front lines of international development. In addition to those by JICA, a primary actor in international development, you can also attend lectures by members of companies in charge of CSR activities. Another of the attractions of these lectures is the opportunity for actual dialogue in the time set aside for Q&A sessions. No matter what your stance on international development may be, it is essential to know what methods are being taken.

(Hironori Tanaka – Class 18)

I had heard terms like “International development” and “ODA” before, but I never knew any of the details until I attended the JICA’s Intercultural Special Lecture. At this lecture, aside from hearing the stories of those active on the ground, you can ask any questions you might have on your mind, consider why some of the unsuccessful plans mentioned failed, and more. This is sure to be a good investment of time for any students with an interest in international cooperation.

(Shohei Kanzaki – Class 19)

From the scene of international aid (picture provided by: JICA Hyogo)