In Japanese culture, there is a beautiful saying—ichigo ichie (一期一会)—which reminds us to cherish each moment as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even if we meet again in the same place with the same people, no gathering will ever be exactly the same. Every encounter is fleeting yet deeply meaningful—a sentiment that perfectly captures the heart of EduTour2025, an annual exchange programme between the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication (FELC), UNIMAS, and Utsunomiya University, Japan.
Last week, on 28 February, FELC welcomed our good friends from Utsunomiya University at the opening ceremony of EduTour2025, marking yet another milestone in a partnership built on learning, cultural exchange, and lasting friendship. The event was held at the Students’ Pad for Academic, Culture and Entertainment (SPACE), FELC, and was graced by Prof. Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit, Vice Chancellor of UNIMAS, whose steadfast support has been instrumental in fostering global collaborations, especially between the two counterparts.
Also present were Prof. Dr. Fitri Suraya Mohamad Hapni Joblie, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof. Dr. Awang Ahmad Sallehin Awang Husaini, Senior Director of the Research, Innovation, and Enterprise Centre (RIEC), and Dr. Dilah Tuah, Dean of FELC, who gave the welcoming speech. We were also honoured to welcome our esteemed guests from Utsunomiya University—Assoc. Prof. Takashi Izuha, along with Prof. Naoki Sugita and Prof. Dr. Chieko Mimura, who will be joining the delegation later in the week.
Creating Meaningful and Memorable University Experiences
EduTour, nominated for International Strategy of the Year at the Asia Times Higher Education Awards 2023, is now in its eighth year and has come a long way. From its early days as a physical exchange (2018–2020), the programme evolved to meet the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, introducing e-EduTour in 2021 and 2022. In 2023, it embraced a blended format, and last year, it took another step forward with a hybrid approach—combining both virtual and in-person interactions. EduTour2025 continues in this format, offering fresh experiences and deeper engagement.
Notably, the FELC EduTour team, led by Prof. Dr. Soubakeavathi Rethinasamy, embarked on an inaugural visit to Utsunomiya University from 6–13 October 2024. The team had the privilege of meeting Utsunomiya University’s staff and students, engaging with the university’s President, and immersing themselves in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The trip included breathtaking experiences—the Oya History Museum, the sacred temples of Nikko, Kegon Waterfall, a farm stay at Shinjo, and even a one-day visit to Tohoku Professional University of Agriculture and Forestry in Yamagata Prefecture (approximately 400 km from Tokyo, but only a 3.5-hour train ride away via the Shinkansen bullet train!)
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Utsunomiya University for their warmth and hospitality and to Prof. Tatsuhiro Ohkubo and his team at Tohoku Professional University of Agriculture and Forestry for welcoming us and sharing a glimpse of their impressive new campus.
ichigo ichie (一期一会) n. lit.
“one time, one meeting”; an encounter that only happens once in a lifetime, reminding us to treasure every moment, for it will never recur.
EduTour2025: A Journey of Learning, Culture, and Friendship
This year, FELC is thrilled to welcome 14 students and 3 staff members from Utsunomiya University, who will spend two enriching weeks (27 February – 14 March 2025) participating in English language classes, cultural activities, and community engagement projects. Accompanying them are 18 UNIMAS student buddies from the English for Global Communication (EGC) programme, who will not only assist in classes but also foster meaningful connections through various activities.
What makes EduTour2025 even more special is its timing—for the first time ever, it takes place during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, offering participants a unique opportunity to experience Malaysia’s rich cultural traditions. From iftar gatherings (or, as we say in the local dialect, sungkei) to community-based activities, this year’s programme goes beyond the classroom, creating an immersive and heartfelt exchange.
EduTour2025 also aligns with UNIMAS’s commitment to sustainability. The English classes, conducted by FELC’s experienced instructors, are themed around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing the university’s mission as a Community-Driven University for a Sustainable World.
Looking Ahead
As EduTour2025 unfolds, participants can look forward to engaging workshops, cultural excursions, and meaningful interactions that will not only enhance their language skills but also broaden their global perspectives.
In his closing remarks, the Dean of FELC, Dr. Dilah Tuah expressed heartfelt appreciation to Prof. Dr. Soubakeavathi Rethinasamy, the dedicated EduTour team, the UNIMAS student buddies, and RIEC for their unwavering commitment to making EduTour2025 a success.
The ceremony ended on a warm note, with a heartfelt wish for our guests from Utsunomiya University to embark on a journey filled with insightful learning, new friendships, and unforgettable moments.
No matter how many times we gather, no moment is ever the same. Like cherry blossoms carried by the wind or laughter lingering in the air, these moments are precious because they are fleeting. To embrace ichigo ichie is to hold the present close, knowing that its beauty lies in its impermanence. As EduTour2025 continues, may each shared experience become a cherished memory, inspiring lifelong friendships and a deeper appreciation for cultural exchange.
One time, one meeting.
Photo credit:
Muhammad Zaman Kasman, Jawai anak Maurice, Dabif Jack Shaw, Roderick Rojis & FELC EduTour Instructors’ team