On Friday, December 26, a student council exchange meeting was held at our school’s Collabo Square, bringing together representatives from the four Ritsumeikan-affiliated high schools. The student councils of Ritsumeikan High School, Ritsumeikan Moriyama High School, and Ritsumeikan Uji High School participated in person, while Ritsumeikan Keisho High School joined via Zoom. This was a valuable opportunity with around 30 student council members gathering together.

The opening address was given by Hanada, the 31st student council president, while Miyoka, the 33rd president, and Komai, the 33rd student council liaison and treasurer, served as facilitators.

In the first half of the session titled “Presentations,” each school introduced the outline of their student council activities, initiatives to improve school rules, and efforts to build school culture. The participants shared challenges faced by their respective schools and the creative solutions implemented, allowing everyone to learn about both the diversity and commonality of student council activities.

The second half focused on “Dialogue,” where students held group discussions on topics such as the ideal format of student assemblies, the relationship between student councils and school administrations during cultural and sports festivals, daily council activities, and the revision of school rules and uniforms. Through these lively exchanges, participants shared candid thoughts and perspectives on how student councils can help make their schools better—transcending the differences between school environments.

After the session, many students voluntarily exchanged contact information, forming new connections that crossed school boundaries. By sharing each school’s council structure and policies, the students were able to reaffirm the potential of student councils to drive school-wide change.

Miyoka, the 33rd student council president, reflected:

“I’m really excited to think about what we can do next. I hope to bring back what I’ve learned and further enrich our student council activities at Ritsumeikan Uji.”

Our school recently held the fourth student general assembly, where the student council transitioned to the 33rd term. This newly formed connection among affiliated schools is expected to become a great asset to future student council activities. We look forward to seeing these relationships grow into a network where members support and inspire one another.

Group photo at the end!