— Experiencing University Learning and Deepening Interest in Future Paths —

On Friday, October 31, third-year junior high school students visited Ritsumeikan University Biwako-Kusatsu Campus (BKC). This cohort had previously visited Ritsumeikan University's Kinugasa Campus and Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in their second year, and during their study trip to Australia, they also visited the University of Queensland. This visit to BKC marks their fourth university campus visit.

At Ritsumeikan Uji Junior High School, we provide many opportunities for students to engage with university-level studies and research. The chance to experience cutting-edge research environments up close fosters academic curiosity—an advantage unique to being part of an affiliated school.

Biwako-Kusatsu Campus: A Hub of Integrated Humanities and Sciences

BKC hosts six faculties: the College of Economics, College of Sport and Health Science, College of Gastronomy Management, College of Science and Engineering, College of Life Sciences, and College of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Spanning 61 hectares, the campus features cutting-edge research facilities and equipment that support interdisciplinary education and research across humanities and sciences.

This visit primarily focused on science and engineering programs. As students are approaching the time to choose between humanities and science tracks in high school, visiting relevant departments and laboratories provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on their future educational paths.

Laboratory Tours and Campus Tour Led by University Students

In the morning, students first attended an overview session on BKC, then divided into 15 groups to visit 10 laboratories across six faculties. In each lab, they received explanations from faculty members and students, and had hands-on experiences with experimental equipment—getting a real feel for university-level learning.

In the afternoon, student navigators led campus tours. The students were split into 10 groups, with three Ritsumeikan Uji alumni currently studying at BKC also joining as guides. Listening directly to their seniors' stories about university life and academics was especially inspiring for the junior high students.

Tour of the Grassroots Innovation Center (GIC)

Some groups also visited the newly opened Grassroots Innovation Center (GIC), launched on September 26. GIC is an open innovation hub that fosters collaboration between students, researchers, businesses, and the local community to develop creative ideas that address societal issues. It includes facilities like "GIC Fab," equipped with 3D printers, supporting the creation of university-led startups and industry-academia collaboration. Students saw firsthand how modern universities are evolving alongside society.

Fostering a Forward-Looking Mindset Toward the Future

This visit to BKC gave students a deeper understanding of university education and research, serving as a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their future. It was a day that allowed them to experience the continuity of learning unique to affiliated schools within an integrated junior and senior high school system.