KUFS Global Studies

Representing Team Go Green, two 3rd year students from Global Studies, Nodoka Okada and Rino Takayama, participated in the Hult Prize Nationals in Sendai, Japan 2026.

At the competition, they presented EcoSort, an AI-powered recycling support app designed to make waste sorting easier and more accessible🍀

“This competition was a truly valuable and meaningful experience for us. Every participant was passionate about creating change and approached real-world problems with strong determination and creativity. Being able to present alongside such inspiring people gave us great motivation and pushed us to grow, both as students and as individuals.

Through this experience, we realized just how many challenges still exist in the world, but also that anyone can become a change-maker by drawing from their own experiences and perspectives. Identifying problems, sharing ideas, and creating solutions reminded us that meaningful change begins with taking small actions ourselves.

Participating in the Hult Prize was an unforgettable opportunity during our time at KUFS, and it encouraged us to continue thinking critically about how we can contribute to society in the future.”

Their participation reflects the spirit of global engagement and social innovation fostered at KUFS🌐

DGS Students — Looking for a Meaningful Summer Experience?

📅 On May 18 during lunch break, DGS graduate Hayato Tanimura will visit Room 441 (Building 4) to introduce summer volunteer opportunities with the Shiga YMCA.

✨ Learn about:
• YMCA Summer Leader Programs
• Working with children and youth activities
• Volunteer opportunities in Shiga
• Hayato’s journey from DGS student to community leader

💡 DGS graduates are out making a difference in the world — and you can too.

If you’re interested in community engagement, leadership, education, volunteering, or simply trying something new this summer, come hear Hayato’s story and explore opportunities beyond the classroom.

Kyoto University of Foreign Studies
Changemaker Series 🌐✨Department of Global Studies

📅 Tuesday, May 19
🕔17:50–19:30
📍Building 1, Room 171

The EU in the World and EU–Japan Relations

Join us for a lecture by Mr. Thomas Gnocchi, Minister / Deputy Head of Delegation at the Delegation of the European Union to Japan.

This talk will explore the European Union’s global role in promoting peace, sustainability, and economic cooperation, as well as its deep and evolving partnership with Japan. This is a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insights into EU–Japan relations from a senior diplomat.

Following the lecture, Mr. Richard Kelner, Academic Cooperation Officer, will introduce Erasmus programmes and study opportunities in Europe.

We look forward to seeing you there!

DGS Changemaker Series🌐✨

On April 28, 2026, the DGS Changemaker Series welcomed Miho Kitagawa Pedroso, a social entrepreneur and researcher specializing on identity, migration, and social impact. Drawing from her experiences in Japan and the United States, she explored how “roots” and “routes” shape identity and purpose.

She defined roots as one’s background and lived experiences, and routes as the paths we take and how we use our skills. Growing up in Kyoto, then a year at a U.S. high school introduced her to discussions on history and politics, which influenced her perspective. She later studied engineering at MIT, where she grew a passion for design research.
A turning point came during shifts in the U.S. political climate, when she felt concerned regarding immigrant issues. Motivated by her own experiences, she founded immi lab in 2020, driven by her passion.

Her work was further shaped by connecting with Brazilian communities in Japan, leading to the creation of “Projecto Ponte,” which supports high school students in accessing education and career opportunities.

In closing, she invited students to identify their strengths and connect them to a purpose that creates meaningful change, leaving the audience reflecting on their own identities and future paths.

Deadline extended🚨

How did you spend your spring break? And how are you planning to spend your golden week break?

Whether you travelled, worked, learned a new skill, took time to rest, volunteered, or reflected on your journey in DGS — we’d love to see your story✨

📸 How to participate:
Share your vacation moments through Reels, carousel posts, or stories.

✔ Use the hashtag
✔ Tag
✔ Make sure your account is public (or send us a screenshot via DM)

🏆 Categories:
• Most Creative Post
• Most Unexpected Break
• WEC Pick
• Faculty Favorite

🎁 Prizes: Exclusive DGS merchandise with brand-new designs!

🗓 Deadline: May 24 (sun), 2026
One post = one entry, so feel free to post multiple times

👉 Join now and share your moments over the break!

Guest Speaker Event – Changemaker Series

Join us for an inspiring talk by ✨Miho Kitagawa Pedroso!
🌍✨From MIT engineering to global impact, she shares how your unique background can become your biggest strength in creating real change! 💡💪

🗓️ Tuesday, April 28
⏰ 17:50–19:30
📍 Building 1, Room 171
🏫 Kyoto University of Foreign Studies


https://www.immilab.org/

Worldwide Engagement Crew (WEC) is looking for new members🌐✨