The International Student Support Volunteer Group, WAWA, (officially approved by the International Center, Okayama University) welcomed newly arrived international students and held the “International Student Welcoming Reception 2014 Spring” in the International House on Tsushima Campus on April 27 in order to promote international interaction and multicultural understanding among students.

Approximately 170 people including international students, Japanese students and school personnel participated in the reception. Dr. Masaru Araki (Executive Director and Vice-President of Social Responsibility and International Affairs) and Prof. Zhang Hong (Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences) addressed, “study hard, actively participate in extracurricular activities in order to spend a fulfilling international student life. Let us liven up Okayama University together.” Participants enjoyed the event by introducing themselves in English or tasting Japanese dishes, such as miso soups and rice balls, prepared by WAWA members. The welcome reception is held every semester with the support of the International Student Union (Okayama University), International Alumni, and International Center, and this year marks the 14th anniversary (the 27th event) since the first reception.