On October 25, 2025, the 22nd International Student Homecoming Day was held at Rokko Hall. The event was hosted by Kobe University graduate Andrei Herinean (Graduate School of Humanities, completed in 2022) and current international student Baljinnyam, Khajidtsetseg (School of Business Administration), with proceedings conducted in both Japanese and English.
To open the event, Executive Vice President TAMAKI Hisashi delivered an address. He emphasized that the International Student Homecoming Day, built upon the history of international exchange, has significantly contributed to the university's development through the expanding overseas alumni network of graduated international students. He also expressed his expectation that Kobe University will continue to grow as a globally-oriented institution through the achievements of its international students.
Following the opening address, an opening performance took place. Three students affiliated with the Graduate School of Intercultural Studies — Tan Faith and Ancha Juin from the Philippines, and Japanese student SHIRAI Mito — presented on the shared “karaoke culture” of the Philippines and Japan. This provided a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of both countries' cultures. Subsequently, songs in Filipino and Japanese were performed, filling the venue with warmth.
The main event, “Welcome back, Alumni!” featured two alumni speaking on the theme “Graduating international students discuss Osaka Expo 2025: Building bridges between the world and Japan.” The speakers were Soltobaeva Djamila, wife of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to Japan (Japanese studies program, completed in 2006), and Wohlauf Sandra, PR Assistant at the Portugal Pavilion (Japanese studies program, 2016). Each shared their perspectives on the Osaka-Kansai Expo and the potential for international exchange. Following the lectures, a roundtable discussion titled “Expo Chat Talk” was held, moderated by Professor Park Jong Woo of the Global Education Center. Through a free-flowing dialogue among the three speakers, the aspirations and expectations embodied in the Expo were shared in greater depth.
The subsequent “Overseas Network Introduction” session began with Associate Professor KAWAKAMI Naoe from the Global Education Center explaining Kobe University's overseas network. This was followed by an introduction to the “Kobe University Alumni Association in Philippines” established this past February, by its President, Paller Vachel Gay (Graduate School of Medicine, completed in 2008). Next, Secretary Alvin Karlo Garcia Tapia (Graduate School of Science, completed in 2013) presented a dynamic slide show that conveyed the strong bond connecting Kobe University and its Filipino alumni.
“Expo Chat Talk” Roundtable discussion
Presentation of the alumni association flag by Executive Vice President TAMAKI
Furthermore, at this year's “KU World Festa,” a Halloween fashion show featuring international students was held, organized by the Kobe University Co-op Student Committee (GI). Students from five countries participated: Chen Danyao (Graduate School of Law), Chaiboonta Pornpimol (Graduate School of Health Sciences), May Jung (Graduate School of Health Sciences), Naher Kumrun (Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies), and Tan Faith (Graduate School of Intercultural Studies). They appeared in costumes reflecting their individuality and also performed songs.
The event was enlivened not only by current students but also by the families of graduated international students. Xue Yan (Graduate School of Human Science, completed in 2008), a Chinese graduate, participated with her child, performing Japanese dance, a tradition she has continued for over 20 years, in elegant kimono attire. Furthermore, KANAI Lamyaa (Faculty of Engineering, graduated in 2005), who serves as Brand Director for Arima Onsen's “Gosho Bessho,” appeared with her child. They introduced the unique hot spring culture of Arima Onsen, located just over the mountains from Rokko, accompanied by beautiful footage. Kobe University's official mascot character, “Shindai Uribo,” also made a special guest appearance at the venue, delighting attendees. GI members distributed sweets, creating a lively Halloween atmosphere.
The final program was the annual highlight singing of the university anthem by all participants. This time, ARAI Masaaki (former Kobe University administrative staff member), who won the first place in the Senior Course of the Section Ⅲ Amateur Division at the 2023 Osaka International Music Competition, one of Kansai's largest music competitions, performed the first verse of the Kobe University anthem as a solo. The entire venue then joined in singing the third verse. It was a heartwarming conclusion, allowing all participants to feel a connection with their alma mater. The closing remarks were delivered by KAWAI Naruo, Director of the Global Education Center, bringing the successful event to a close.
The 22nd International Student Homecoming Day saw participation from over 200 current students, alumni, and university staff and faculty members. Continuing the theme from last year, it embodied the philosophy of “People, Knowledge, and Flow back” making it a meaningful day.
Commemorative photo for “The 22nd International Student Homecoming Day”
(Global Education Center)