Kansai University Hosts Student Exchange with California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB)1/5

On June 8, 2026, nine students from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) visited Kansai University and participated in an academic exchange program with 21 students from the Seminar in Comparative Religious Studies, Faculty of Letters.

During the session, Kansai University students delivered interim presentations on their undergraduate thesis research plans in English. The presentations were followed by lively question-and-answer sessions with CSUB students and faculty members. Participants exchanged questions and comments from a variety of perspectives, leading to engaging academic discussions in an international setting.

In the second half of the program, students formed small discussion groups to explore differences in religious perspectives and practices. Topics included the Japanese custom of visiting shrines and temples regardless of one's level of religious belief, a practice that is less common in the United States, as well as differences in how Christmas and the New Year holidays are celebrated in each country. Through these conversations, students shared insights and reflected on cultural and religious diversity from their respective viewpoints.

This exchange provided a valuable opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of religion and culture while engaging in meaningful dialogue with peers from different backgrounds.