By Kenneth Zindondo,

Blantyre, June 20, Mana: A diplomat at Japanese Embassy in Malawi, Tokia Ayako, visited Kalibu Academy in Blantyre on Thursday, where she held an interactive session with members of the school’s Japanese Club, introducing them to Japanese traditions, language and attire.

During the session, Ayako, who also teaches at Balaka Primary School in Balaka district, introduced students to elements of Japanese tradition, including demonstrations on how to wear traditional attire and make simple cultural items.

She also presented gifts, such as packets of seaweed, as a gesture of goodwill to the students at Kalibu Academy.

“I am very excited to see how the students are actively learning Japanese culture through songs, language, and crafts. It is wonderful to see such enthusiasm, and I hope to continue engaging with them through different platforms like letters, online exchanges, and future visits,” she said.

The school club’s matron, Kupatsa Mtambalika, praised the session, saying this will help the students in cultural studies. 

“This experience has helped the students connect what they are learning in class to real cultural practices. It has deepened their appreciation,” she said.

Following the session, students shared their excitement and appreciation for having the opportunity to engage directly with a representative from Japan.

“The session was very educational. Learning directly from someone from Japan helped me understand the culture better and encouraged me to keep exploring it,” said one of the students, Tapunda Mhango.

Another student, Grace Dzimbiri said she was excited and inspired by Japanese traditional attire and language.

“Seeing how traditional clothes are worn and hearing the language spoken by a native speaker made everything more real for me. It was inspiring,” she added as fellow students also hoped for more opportunities to interact with representatives from the Japanese Embassy.

Dzimbiri said such sessions make their learning more meaningful and exciting.