The role of globalisation in higher education
In today’s interconnected world, universities must provide students with access to study abroad, recruit international students and faculty, and develop international resources. This necessity applies not only to Japanese and American institutions but globally.
The future success of higher education depends on embracing globalisation, which is key to educating the next generation of Japanese and Americans for a globalised world. Furthermore, the US-Japan relationship, the most crucial bilateral relationship for both countries, relies on maintaining strong educational and social ties.
Language and cultural exchange
Effective communication and sociocultural understanding are fundamental. Japan needs English speakers, and the US, along with other countries, needs Japanese speakers. SBI serves both functions, acting as a cultural centre in Boston for US-Japan relations. The interest in Japanese language and culture, and studying abroad in Japan, has surged in the post-COVID era. As of the latest data, around 280,000 students are studying in Japan, with approximately 20% focusing on the Japanese language.
Conversely, Japan leads the world with about 11,000 intensive English language students in the US, constituting 16% of the global total. These figures underscore the robust and ongoing positive relationship between the two nations.
Showa Boston Institute: A bridge between cultures
SBI stands at the intersection of these educational and cultural trends. With over 200 students ranging in age from 9 to 70, its Japanese Language Program is the largest in New England. The program is designed to prepare students for the Japanese Language Placement Test, enrol in Japanese universities as study abroad or full-time students, provide language training for those interested in Japanese society and culture, and enhance family ties for those with relatives in Japan. Students practice their Japanese with SBI’s Japanese students, fostering mutual cultural understanding.
Simultaneously, SBI offers for-credit, content-based English language courses to study abroad students from SWU and other institutions. These programs, available in both full-semester and short-term formats, cater to a wide range of students from elementary to high school levels from various countries.
Engaging the Boston community
Beyond serving students, SBI engages the Boston community, offering opportunities to learn about Japan and interact with its students. SBI’s volunteer hosting program has veterans that have been meeting students for over 20 years. Cultural events, lectures, and programs preparing people for study and travel in Japan are regularly offered. SBI also participates in activities that bring contemporary Japan to the local community, such as the Japan Festival of Boston.
Conclusion
In an era where globalisation is crucial for educational success, institutions like SBI play a pivotal role in fostering international understanding and cooperation. SBI not only prepares students for a globalised future but also strengthens the vital US-Japan relationship through education and cultural exchange. As we move forward, such initiatives will be indispensable in maintaining and enhancing the bonds between nations.
About the author
Bruce Stronach’s career in higher education spans both Japanese and American institutions. Beginning as a visiting researcher at Keio University in 1976, he has held numerous positions, including faculty member, dean, provost, and president. His notable roles include a four-year presidency at Yokohama City University and a 13-year deanship at Temple University’s Japan campus.
His leadership extends to serving as Vice Chairman of the Japanese University Accreditation Association, an Advisory Group Member for CULCON, an Executive Board member of JAFSA, and a member of the administrative councils (keiei kyougikai) of Tsukuba University and Yamagata National University.
Now, Stronach applies his extensive expertise in higher education and US-Japan relations as President of Showa Boston Institute (SBI), the overseas campus of Showa Women’s University(SWU). Located in Tokyo, SWU has been educating and empowering women for over 100 years.Located in Boston, the educational hub of the East Coast, SBI serves as a vital cultural and educational link between the US, Japan, and the world.
