The World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) continues to strengthen its global engagement through the WUACD IMPACT Program held in Shizuoka, Japan. Designed as an International community service initiative that emphasizes Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), disaster mitigation education, and cultural exchange. Through a series of thoughtfully designed activities, the program created opportunities for students to engage directly with different cultural perspectives in a meaningful and reflective way.

On January 30, the program opened with a Mini Exhibition Presentation: “About Indonesia.” In this session, students introduced Indonesia’s cultural diversity, traditions, and social life as part of their activities in Japan. The activity served as a platform for sharing perspectives and experiences, creating meaningful interaction, and helping build mutual understanding between Indonesia and Japan.

As the program continued, a study tour to Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji, including a visit to Oishi Park, was conducted on February 1. The location offered students a chance to experience a different environment and cultural context, allowing them to engage more closely with everyday life in Japan. The visit also encouraged reflection on how cultural values are reflected in public spaces and the surrounding environment, contributing to a broader understanding of cultural differences in a more contextual way. Therefore, the visit was valuable for participants because it gave them the opportunity to adapt to a new environment, interact more directly with local culture, and gain deeper insight into how Japanese society preserves nature, cleanliness, and public order in daily life.

On the 3rd of February, another cultural activity introduced students to the practice of matcha preparation, giving them a glimpse into everyday Japanese culture. Since matcha preparation is rooted in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, the process of sifting the powder, adding hot water, and whisking it with a chasen symbolizes discipline, harmony, and mindfulness that have been preserved for generations. By participating in this activity, participants not only experienced a cultural tradition firsthand but also broadened their cultural understanding and appreciation of Japanese cultures.

Overall, the activities reflected the importance of cultural exchange as part of global learning. Through shared experiences and interactions in Japan, participants were able to gain a broader perspective on different ways of life and cultural practices. These moments of exchange highlight the value of connection and collaboration across cultures, aligning with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnership for the Goals). By Building understanding through simple yet meaningful interactions, the program contributes to strengthening global partnerships through direct connections.