Previously, I had the opportunity to live in Japan for about a week, and I absolutely fell in love with the country. I always thought that if I ever had a chance to stay longer, it would be wonderful. So, when I saw the announcement for student applications to join the CAMPUS Asia6 program, I did not hesitate to apply. I chose the University of Tsukuba in Japan, believing that this might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience and learn deeply about the language, culture, and education system of Japan over 3 months period.
My main goal in joining this program was to learn more about the Japanese education system. Once the program began, I was surprised to discover that Japan places great emphasis on integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a foundation for educational practice—from the university level to the Board of Education, schools, and even down to individual classrooms. This approach was something I was not very familiar with in the Thai education system. It made me realize that true education must aim to cultivate global citizens who relate to the world.
Throughout the program, I had the chance to observe real-life educational environments, including compulsory education schools, high schools, IB schools, and international schools. I also visited institutions such as MEXT and local Boards of Education. These experiences gave me a broad and diverse perspective on educational policy and practice.
The seminars and group activities with international students were always exciting and eye-opening. We all came from different backgrounds and cultures, yet the University of Tsukuba created a safe space for us to learn and grow together. The professors were always open-minded and supportive, which gave me the confidence to express myself and be true to who I am. I learned how to listen attentively, communicate thoughtfully, and ask meaningful questions. I had opportunities to discuss global social issues, educational reform, and policy development with students from different countries, each sharing insights from their own educational systems.
One of the most valuable experiences for me was being invited by professors in the field of Mathematics Education to join Lesson Study activities at several schools. These visits allowed me to witness Japanese Lesson Study and the Open Approach in actual classrooms. I observed both similarities and differences that I can apply to improving my own mathematics teaching practices in Thailand, as well as my future research. I am deeply grateful to all the professors who made this possible.
Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the faculty members, dedicated coordinators, and fellow participants I met during this journey for their continuous support and encouragement during and after the program. This program was not just a cultural exchange; it exceeded my expectations in every way. Living and learning alongside students from multiple countries helped me gain a deep appreciation for diversity. These friends were not just “foreign students”—they were mirrors reflecting ideas, dreams, and hopes similar to mine. Although we spoke different languages and came from different cultures, we shared a common goal: to make the world a better place through education.
Campus Tour: First Day at the University of Tsukuba
Opening Ceremony: The official first gathering of our dedicated professors, lovely coordinators,
and enthusiastic students in the CA6 Program
