From Monday, August 19 to Friday, September 13, 2024, the Kyrgyz Republic-Japan Center’s One-Month Russian Language Skill Improvement Course (26 days) was held in Bishkek, the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. This time, 21 people participated from nine universities (Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Waseda University, Sophia University, Kobe City University of Foreign Studies, Osaka University, Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, Kanazawa University, and the University of Shimane), including three from our university. This program was established in cooperation with the University of Tsukuba, the Kyrgyz Republic-Japan Center (KRJC) supported by the JICA project, and Kyrgyz National University. It aims to provide opportunities for Russian language students to study Russian in Kyrgyzstan, where Russian is the official language, especially given the current difficulties in studying abroad in Russia.
Therefore, this program is designed for students majoring in Russian or studying it as a second language at Japanese universities. It includes 58 hours of Russian language courses (elementary and intermediate levels), 8 hours of introductory Kyrgyz language courses, a 20-night homestay, visits to Kyrgyz schools, exchange programs with Kyrgyz and university students, and an optional tour of Lake Issyk Kul. Participants also engage in international cooperation activities, experiencing nomadic and Islamic cultures amidst the region’s stunning natural landscapes. Comprehensive Japanese support is provided before, during, and after the program.
While there, students were able to spend much of their time in classes and at the homestay, where they were exposed to the live Russian language and received language training. In addition, while adjusting to life abroad, the students were able to gain many realizations through interaction with various people, and were able to have a valuable experience of learning about the culture and social diversity of the Kyrgyz Republic.
*Reports from participating students can be viewed at the following link.
