Chiharu Soejima, a third-year student at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Japan, is majoring in Agricultural Environmental Engineering. She is currently studying hydrology, soil mechanics, environmental geotechnics, structural mechanics, surveying, design, and data analysis. Since childhood, Chiharu has been deeply interested in solving global issues such as poverty, war, and inequality. However, as she delved deeper into her studies, she began to question whether her actions could truly address these issues and whether she is capable of making a meaningful contribution to global challenges. Determined to find answers, Chiharu decided to step out of her comfort zone and spend six months in Indonesia through the Asian International Mobility for Students (AIMS) program.
Although she initially worried about adapting to life in a foreign country, Chiharu quickly felt at home thanks to the incredible support from Academic Office of Universitas Gadjah Mada and her buddy. Her time at UGM brought many new discoveries and valuable experiences. Studying at UGM, especially at Faculty of Agriculture, and interacting with friends from diverse cultural backgrounds gave her a fresh perspective on Japan’s role in Asia. Seeing Japan from the outside deepened her understanding of her own country and made her think critically about Japan’s responsibilities in a world facing global challenges. It also inspired her to consider her own role, as a Japanese citizen, in contributing to these solutions.
“It feels amazing for me to be connected with friends who have various different backgrounds, so that I can understand deeper about myself and my country, Japan, related to how face global challenges in the future,” she added.
At UGM, Chiharu embraced the opportunity to learn new things, make new friends, and expand her worldview. These experiences allowed her to discover aspects of herself she had not known before and gave her valuable hints about what she truly enjoys and finds meaningful. While she has not completely resolved her uncertainties about her future, she now feels motivated to take on challenges and pursue what she is passionate about.
Living in Indonesia has been both a challenge and a deeply rewarding experience for Chiharu. Even after returning to Japan, she plans to continue studying the Indonesian language and hopes to make the most of the insights and experiences she gained.
“My time in Indonesia has helped me reflect on Japan’s role in the world and my own responsibilities as a global citizen. I want to keep growing and contributing to meaningful solutions,” she shared.
The awareness of Chiharu in enhancing her knowledge through AIMS program at Faculty of Agriculture UGM becomes a strong proof of faculty’s commitment in accomplishing sustainable development goals (SDGs), mainly SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Author: Hanita Athasari Zain
Editor: Desi Utami
Photo: Chiharu’s Documentation