On Saturday, December 20, members of the Ritsumeikan Uji High School Student Council participated in the 7th Rule-Making Dialogue Café in Shiga (nicknamed “Ruru Café”).

The Rule-Making Dialogue Café is a program that encourages students to become proactive and engaged citizens by discussing school rules and regulations with people from diverse backgrounds, including teachers, parents, and community members. Through these dialogues, participants become more aware of issues close to them and learn to act with a sense of ownership. This time, the event was held at the “Otsu City Fureai Plaza” in Shiga Prefecture and was co-hosted by Omi Brotherhood High School and Ritsumeikan Moriyama High School, another Ritsumeikan-affiliated school.

Participants shared their thoughts in small groups on rules they believe should be followed and those they feel uncomfortable with. After identifying similarities and differences, they actively exchanged opinions with other groups. Many students realized that, despite being from different schools and environments, they shared common concerns and values — a powerful reminder of the importance of dialogue.

Reflections from participating Ritsumeikan Uji students included:

This event offered a meaningful opportunity to view rules not as something that is simply handed down, but rather as something to be created through open dialogue. It is hoped that the insights gained will be applied to future student council activities and school community building.