Realizing the importance of academic collaboration and network building among Indonesian students (undergraduate and graduate programs) in Ritsumeikan University (Kinugasa Campus, Biwako-Kusatsu Campus, Osaka Ibaraki Campus), Indonesian students in Ritsumeikan University have formed the Indonesian Student Association at Ritsumeikan University (I-START). Through this association, Indonesian students in Ritsumeikan University will be able to actively contribute to Ritsumeikan University as well as to the Indonesian society in Japan.

I-START had its first gathering on April 9th, 2016 which was attended by 66 participants, both Indonesian and Japanese students. The gathering aimed to allow participants to know each other and strengthen their network as well as introducing I-START to Indonesian and Japanese students at Ritsumeikan University. Besides Indonesian students, some TISA (Tutors for International Students Assembly) members and Ritsumeikan students who joined exchange programs in Indonesia also participated in the gathering. The event started with introductions from each participant and then some ice-breaking games. These games created a friendly atmosphere amongst the participants and brought them together. The event included a sharing session where some Ritsumeikan students shared their experiences about studying at Ritsumeikan. The main activity of the event was the inauguration of I-START in which a short explanation on the organization was provided. The event finished with a photo session and exchange of gifts.

Students were able to learn more about I-START, made new connections, and discussed future activities. I-START will make this kind of gathering regular every semester to accommodate new students coming both in the spring and fall semesters. In addition, the association plans to hold an internal discussion related to the research topics of its members to help improve their academic ability. I-START also plans to arrange activities to introduce Indonesian culture to Japan, such as cultural events and performances. Lastly, I-START has started to establish an alumni database for Indonesian students who finished their studies at Ritsumeikan University. Their plan is to establish a network with alumni for future endeavors. I-START aims to be a positive contribution to Ritsumeikan University and to the Indonesian society here in Japan.

(Photos taken by I-START)