[Pre-Departure Orientation Held] Multicultural Co-Learning in Côte d’Ivoire: Off to Africa!
2026.01.22
On January 21, a pre-departure orientation was held for participants in the Multicultural Co-Learning Program in Côte d’Ivoire.
In preparation for their trip to Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa, beginning on February 27, staff members reviewed the progress of participants’ visa applications and required vaccinations. They also provided practical guidance on travel preparations, including appropriate clothing for the local climate, recommended items to bring, and exchanging currency into the West African CFA franc (XOF).
One participant shared, “This will be my first time traveling to Africa, so I feel a little nervous. At the same time, I’m excited and will continue preparing so that I can learn as much as possible while staying safe.”
Proof of yellow fever vaccination (the Yellow Card) is mandatory for entry into Côte d’Ivoire.
During the second half of the orientation, participants also had the opportunity to interact with four international students from the University of Tsukuba who are from West Africa. Using English and French, they engaged in conversations about the history, culture, and languages of Côte d’Ivoire and neighboring countries, gaining valuable insights before their departure.
The exchange session was attended by students from Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, The Gambia, and Liberia.
The Multicultural Co-Learning Program in Côte d’Ivoire is a short-term study program designed to deepen students’ understanding of the various social challenges facing Sub-Saharan Africa, using Côte d’Ivoire as a case study, and to explore possible approaches to addressing these issues.
In preparation for the program, participants have attended a series of pre-departure lectures, including sessions led by specialists in African development education and a serving diplomat from the Embassy of Japan in Côte d’Ivoire. During the two-week program, students will attend special lectures at a local university and participate in a variety of fieldwork activities, including a visit to the local office of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency).
With approximately one month remaining before departure, the faculty and staff will continue their preparations to ensure that the program provides a safe, meaningful, and rewarding learning experience for all participants.
