Collaborative Learning on Legal Approaches to Social Issues in Brazil
2025.9.29
From August 11 to August 15, 2025, students from the College of Social Sciences, School of Social and International Studies and the Bachelor’s Program in Global Issues (BPGI), School of Integrative and Global Majors (SIGMA) participated in a collaborative learning program in Brazil with students from the University of São Paulo.
The students visited the University of São Paulo, one of the Campus-in-Campus (CiC) partner universities. They engaged in discussions with the students of Faculty of Law under the coordination of Professor Masato Ninomiya, Professor Emeritus at the University of São Paulo. Through these discussions, they exchanged views on law and social issues. A campus tour organised by local students provided insights into the history of the university’s Faculty of Law and offered an opportunity to reflect on its role in society.
Following the tour, students from both universities held a joint discussion. After the University of Tsukuba students presented their perspectives in English, students from the University of São Paulo asked various questions about the current state of Japanese law and society. Many participants had roots in Japan, and it was a valuable opportunity to engage with students who have a strong interest in Japan. Through these discussions, students learned that a comprehensive understanding of history and culture is essential for addressing social issues through legal means. They also attended a lecture by Assistant Professor Hajime Akiyama, Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences, gaining further insights from the Q&A session with the University of São Paulo students.
In addition to the collaborative learning at the University of São Paulo, the students visited several institutions including the Superior Court of Justice (STJ), the Regional Federal Court of the 3rd Region, the Embassy of Japan in Brazil, the Consulate-General of Japan in São Paulo, JAPAN HOUSE, and the National Congress. They also participated in the 1st Brazil-Japan Law Congress held at the STJ, gaining valuable experience.
Although the students initially appeared nervous due to the differences in environment upon arriving in Brazil, by the end of the program, they were actively engaging with others—even communicating with flight attendants in Portuguese, Brazil’s official language. Despite the short four-day stay, the program provided a meaningful opportunity for student growth.
Look at the following for the report of activities other than collaborative learning program.
