IUHD students completed internship in Tokyo as part of the MIRAI Youth Exchange Program

IUHD students completed internship in Tokyo as part of the MIRAI Youth Exchange Program

By Shagadam Bayramdurdyyev

A group of 24 young legal professionals and students from Central Asia and the Caucasus, including three students from Turkmenistan, recently concluded a week-long internship in Tokyo. The immersive experience was part of the “MIRAI - Rule of Law” youth exchange program organized by the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) on January 16-22, 2024.

Our country was represented by Novruz Nurberdiyev, a 4th-year student majoring in International Public Law, Dursunjemal Yylkybaeva, a 3rd-year student majoring in International Relations and World Politics, both from International University for the Humanities and Development, and Serdar Rahymov, a 5th-year student of International Relations and Diplomacy major from the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.

The MIRAI project aims to foster international cooperation, cultural enrichment, and mutual understanding among young professionals and students in Central Asia and the Caucasus. The week-long program featured educational components, cultural experiences, and networking opportunities, providing participants with insights into Japan's legal system, culture, and history.

Throughout the week, participants attended lectures and seminars, starting with an informative session organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. They also engaged in seminars and master classes conducted by institutions such as Keio University Law faculty, the law firm of Nishimura and Asahi, the Supreme Court of Japan, the International Justice Center (IJC) of the Ministry of Justice, and the United Nations Asia and Far East Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFEI).

The cultural program allowed the participants to explore Tokyo's famous landmarks, including Tokyo Tower, the ancient city of Asakusa, and Sensoji Temple. They immersed themselves in Japanese gardens, experienced the country's culinary delights, and participated in a traditional tea ceremony to learn about the art of preparing and enjoying Matcha tea.

One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to Mount Fuji and the nearby village of Oshino Hakkai, offering breathtaking views of the sacred mountain and deepening their understanding of its cultural and natural significance.

The final day saw the Turkmen students participating in a reporting session at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presenting the results of group assignments focused on the knowledge acquired during the “MIRAI - Rule of Law” program. They shared insights into the program's strategies for promoting action plans and discussed ways to disseminate valuable experiences and knowledge to a wider audience.

In addition to the educational and cultural aspects, the MIRAI program also succeeded in fostering friendships and creating opportunities among its participants, leaving them with lasting memories of Japan's unique flavor, centuries-old traditions, and original culture.

Shagadam BAYRAMDURDYYEV,

Instructor of International Relations department of the

International University for the Humanities and Development