Students and teachers gathered for a socially distanced day camp when Covid cases were on the decrease and vaccinations on the rise. The primary aims were to reacquaint students after an extended period of online classes, create a more inclusive community for isolated international students, set up opportunities for student leadership, and reach out to a need within a local orphanage.


The morning schedule comprised several parallel mini-course sessions taught by both teachers and students who shared their unique talents and skills in a relaxed environment. Attendees could attend 55-minute mini-courses of their choice and experience something fun, new, and outside the scope of a regular university class. Throughout the sessions, all participants were required to follow specific rules to maintain a safe environment.


The afternoon activities consisted of various team activities that spread students apart outside and in the school gymnasium. Such endeavors included game shows, relays, coffee bean roasting, and introductions to unfamiliar sports like Australian football and cricket. The main event was a shopping game that raised money for a charity that went toward buying playground equipment for an orphanage in Kobe.


Personal contact and communication between peers are of utmost importance, even in the best of times. When students are isolated from each other, the nature of their educational experience can radically change. Therefore, this two-day event provided students with a unique opportunity to reconnect with their peers, exercise their talents, and instigate a new sense of belonging during uncertain times.

The event was held from September 11-12, 2021.