Abstract:
Study Exchange programmes and Language learning are very important instruments for cultural exchange. Not only do they enable learning of cultures, customs and traditions of different partners, they also lead to a better understanding of life and its diversities and challenges at the individual and societal level. This paper reflects the experiences of students from Goa University and Nihon University who got involved in two programmes and experienced a transformation within. The Study India programme between Nihon University and Goa University saw a unique student exchange from both sides which saw mutual (earning and creative expression, leaving lasting memories on both sides, notwithstanding the immense challenges that would often come in the way. The Japanese Language Programme built up on the success of the exchange programme, saw an intensive learning of the Japanese language by Goan students, becoming a medium to understand a distant culture and making a process of becoming an instrument of individual growth as well. The paper draws upon the personal experiences of the actors and stakeholders in the above two programmes and adds value to the existing literature on cultural expression and exchange. It will rely on personal experiences, interviews and secondary data based on articles in journals and books.
