Bridging the World Through Music: Osaka University's a-tune Project

Interview with Mr.Yoshikawa, Student Representative of a-tune, and other main staff: Ms.Hasegawa (Vice Representative)、Mr.Kobayashi (Event Management)、Ms.Yamasa (Performance Support)

Q: What is the purpose and main activities of a-tune?

"The core purpose of a-tune is to achieve 'UNITY' through music, transcending barriers of language, culture, and ethnicity. We aim to create a society where individuals respect and appreciate each other's backgrounds and perspectives, regardless of their differences.

A crucial element of our activities is the use of 'ParoTone,' an innovative electronic instrument developed by eMotto, a startup from Osaka University. ParoTone is designed to be accessible to everyone, even those without prior musical experience. This revolutionary instrument allows anyone to participate in our international music exchanges, making our project truly inclusive.

Here are key points about  "ParoTone" 

Innovative Design: ParoTone is a compact electronic keyboard with a unique layout of 5 columns and 3 rows of keys on each side. The right-hand plays melodies while the left hand plays chords. This design allows for intuitive playing, similar to touch-typing on a computer keyboard, making it easier for beginners to learn.　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

Rapid Learning: Research has shown that users can learn to play ParoTone five times faster than a traditional piano. This is achieved through a game-like interface on a smartphone app, where users follow on-screen prompts to press keys in time with the music. This approach reduces cognitive load for beginners, making it less likely for them to give up.

Versatility and Accessibility: ParoTone connects to smartphones or tablets via a dedicated app, offering a library of 120 popular songs across various genres. It's portable, allowing practice anywhere, and is designed to be accessible even to those who have previously struggled with learning musical instruments. The instrument has gained recognition from music professionals and academics for its potential in music education and international cultural exchange.

The biggest stage "a-tune" aims for is performing at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.　

We are working on plans to create an online orchestra connecting students worldwide.

"With the support of Osaka University faculty and partner companies, we have been experimenting and building a student organization that includes international students. We've gained experience and confidence by hosting events such as 'e-Symphony for 2022' with students from 7 countries and 'e-Symphony for 2023' which brought together students from 10 countries. Through each event, our network has steadily expanded. As of September 1, we have members from 24 countries."

How does a-tune attract international students?

"Many international students at Osaka University's Center for Japanese Language and Culture Education have joined a-tune through invitations from their friends who are already members.

This has significantly increased international student participation.

Recently, when a German exchange student returned home, we traveled to Germany with them and established an a-tune base there. We aim to create a positive cycle where existing international student participants help attract more overseas students and establish more international bases.

We believe music has the power to connect people beyond words. We hope our activities inspire many young people to take an interest in international exchange and take action themselves.

We want a-tune's activities to go beyond mere music events and promote true international understanding and cooperation.

By utilizing innovative technologies like ParoTone, we aim to create more opportunities to connect young people worldwide through music and deepen mutual understanding."This response highlights a-tune's organic growth through personal connections, our proactive approach to establishing international bases, and their vision of using music and technology to foster global understanding and cooperation.

The students involved with the Osaka-Kansai Expo are still relatively few, but we take pride in being part of this era and contributing to creating a significant stage.

We not only feel proud of their involvement but also aspire to continue connecting future generations beyond 2025.

--------Upcoming Event Announcement--------

As the Osaka-Kansai Expo approaches, a-tune will host "e-Symphony for the EXPO ~Half year to go~".Date and Time: October 19, 2024 (Sunday), 13:45 - 16:00 (Doors open at 13:15)
Venue: Osaka University Convention Center
Admission Fee: Free
Note: Entry and exit are allowed during the event, except during performances. 

For more details please visit the registration form here.

e-Symphony for 2024 ~toGather~

We are excited to announce the "e-Symphony for 2024 ~toGather~" event, centered around an online orchestra connecting many international students. 

Event Highlights:

• Performances will include not only the online orchestra with overseas students but also the Osaka-Kansai Expo theme song "This Earth Continues" and collaborations with students from other universities.

• The performances will be enhanced by projection mapping.

Details:

• Date: December 15, 2024 (Sunday)

• Time: 18:00 - 20:00 (Doors open at 17:30)

• Venue: Ikeda Civic Cultural Hall Azalea Hall

• Admission Fee: Free
  Note: Entry and exit are allowed during the event, except during performances.

For more information and to reserve your spot, please visit the registration form here. 

The interview with President Hasegawa 
Ehle Academy's Initiatives for Regional Revitalization and Multicultural Coexistence

Interviewing with President Keiichi Hasegawa of Ehle Academy for the first time in 11 years. The school now boasts over 1,500 students, but even when international students were few, Ehle Academy encouraged them to volunteer in the community to become valuable members of society. Despite initial challenges due to language and cultural differences, years of persistent community cleanup efforts have paid off. Recently, the academy has received over 1,000 volunteer requests from residents for their international students while some areas in Japan face conflicts between foreign residents and locals, in Osaka's Naniwa Ward, Ehle Academy's international students have become valuable community assets under the philosophy of "Becoming who you want to be, serving others"

Impact on Regional Research and Exchange

• Through these community activities, students likely gain practical insights into local culture and society, which could be valuable for regional studies.
• The daily interaction with the community through cleanup activities and other collaborations naturally promotes regional exchange and understanding.

These initiatives demonstrate Ehle Academy's commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between international students and the local community, contributing to regional development and cross-cultural understanding.

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International Students Contributing to Regional Revitalization

"Becoming who you want to be" → Good grades, desired employment, integration into Japanese society

"Serving others" → Contributing to the community through volunteering and local activities

Initially viewed as a nuisance, international students have transformed into a valuable group that contributes positively to the community.

Community Cleanup Activities:

• Local litter pickup around Ehle Academy
• Namba Central Park cleanup
• Graffiti removal
• Naniwa Ward Zero Waste Campaign
• Midosuji Street cleaning (1,500 international students participated as part of the curriculum)
• Participants: Students and staff

Jizo Festival (Namba de Yukata):

• Yukata dressing volunteers: Local community members from Namba-Naka area
• Yukata experience participants:
  1. Children living in Namba-Naka area
  2. Ehle Academy students
• Post-dressing activities:
  1. Children participate in Bon dance at "Namba Carnival"
  2. Assisting with festival food stalls

This event showcases cultural exchange and community involvement, with residents helping dress participants in yukata (summer kimono). Both local children and international students from Ehle Academy take part, engaging in traditional dance and festival activities, fostering cross-cultural understanding and community spirit.

Welfare Friendship Plaza:

• Participation trigger: Request for wheelchair assistance volunteers
• Location: Naniwa Ward Community Center
• Activities:
  • Bazaar, food stalls, exhibitions
  • Nursing care consultations
  • Hands-on experiences (sign language, braille)
  • Toy hospital
  • Exchange meetings
  • Goodwill Bank award ceremony
  • Stage performances
• Participants: 19 students, 1 teacher
• Volunteer roles:
  • Reception
  • Wheelchair assistance
  • Dancing in mascot costumes
  • Playing with children

This event showcases community engagement, providing opportunities for students to volunteer in various capacities, from practical assistance to entertainment. It promotes interaction between students and residents, fostering understanding of diverse needs within the community.

Learning Support Program:

• Location: Shikitsu Elementary School and others
• Scope: International students dispatched to all elementary and junior high schools in the district
• Participants: Ehle Academy students
• Activities: Academic support for children with foreign roots who are not proficient in Japanese

• Naniwa Ward and Ehle Academy have an agreement for this program
• Students participate as interns, visiting schools once a week

This initiative demonstrates Ehle Academy's commitment to community integration and education support. By helping children with diverse backgrounds improve their Japanese language skills and academic performance, international students contribute significantly to the local education system while gaining valuable experience in cross-cultural communication and teaching.

Here's a summary of the changes teachers have observed over the past 10 years regarding international students:

Foreign students typically face three main barriers:

1. Language barrier
2. Institutional/systemic barrier
3. Psychological/emotional barrier

Among these, the "psychological barrier" - consisting of misunderstandings and prejudices against foreign students - has been particularly high. However, through community contributions and engagement, there has been a significant shift in local attitudes. What were once complaints have transformed into expressions of support, with locals now saying "We want to help!" This change indicates a positive trend in breaking down the psychological barriers faced by international students.

The transition from being viewed as a nuisance to becoming valued community members highlights how active community involvement can foster mutual understanding and acceptance. Ehle Academy's long-term strategy of encouraging students to contribute to the local community has played a crucial role in this transformation, demonstrating the power of cultural exchange and community service in overcoming prejudices and building positive relationships.

Revitalizing Local Traditions and Economy

International students now play a significant role in revitalizing local festivals where Japanese participation has declined.

 The Minami area of Osaka is popular among foreign tourists for its authentic atmosphere. President Hasegawa envisioned a progression from tourism to studying, working, and eventually settling in Japan, which could help counter population decline.

In addition to its long-standing activities in the Namba area, Ehle Academy has opened a new advanced information technology school in the Shin-Imamiya area, just a 15-minute walk from Namba. This new school, which started in April, already has a capacity of 680 students.

President Hasegawa expressed enthusiasm about future collaborations with the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry's "Greater Minami Revitalization" project. By aligning with initiatives to create hubs for foreign entrepreneurs, Ehle Academy aims to contribute further to the local economy's revitalization

Ehle Academy's long-standing efforts to integrate international students into the local community have yielded remarkable results:

From Outsiders to Valued Community Members

Contributing to Local Businesses and Society

Deepening Understanding of Japanese Society

Ehle Academy's Dual Approach

Ehle Academy's long-term strategy of providing proactive opportunities for international students aims to achieve both regional revitalization and multicultural coexistence simultaneously. This approach is likely to bring a brighter future for both the international students and Japanese local communities.

 This initiative by Ehle Academy is paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant society in Japan. （written and translated by Miyazaki, the editor of Global Community）

Interview voice by soundcolud.com

https://soundcloud.com/kazumi-miyazaki/ehle-academys-initiatives-for-regional-revitalization-and-multicultural-coexistence

Spreading a new idea from Japan

We are all connected by water

What is EZ water? The fourth state of water - the most significant scientific discovery of the century
Eye-opening possibilities of Atomic hydrogen Water
Experimental voyaging on Atomic hydrogen water shows 40% of oil cut

Spreading a new idea from Japan

Now is the time to step into action

We are facing a planetary emergency that may lead to more serious problems. All human beings will eventually feel the impacts on climate change, financial meltdown, overpopulation, water and food scarcity, resource depletion and nuclear threat.

If we continue on this unsustainable way of living, most of Earth will be uninhabitable. 

This day may come earlier than expected - we may face a total system collapse over wars caused by ecological disaster,  religious and geographical conflicts or scarcity of resources.

Time is running out to prevent irreversible impact on the ecosystem. The accelerating global problems shorten a time limit from half a century to 20 years, 10 years and 5 years. 

What can we do in Japan?

It is a question of the way we see ourselves and the world. We need to change the way we think in order to be caretakers of a global ecosystem for coexistence. This is an opportunity to establish a new value and priority, and move to a new direction.

Japanese used to embrace a collective way of living that respects nature. However, Japan has witnessed the rapid rise of materialism since World War II.
We need to reconsider the Japanese principle of harmony, 'Wa',  as this can create harmony between new ideas and old values. Our traditional Japanese concept can be coupled with leading edge technology.

Many Japanese people used to be farmers who appreciate and respect nature. Because of the great economic boom after World War II, such spirit was lost and people become materialistic. The March 11th disaster has reminded us of our traditional way of thinking. More than 100,000 people are still experiencing inconvenience in their daily life, and nuclear problems are still unsolved. The world admired the self-discipline and patience of the Japanese people in the midst of such a horrendous emergency. We believe that this leads to a new recognition in the world of our traditional value of harmony.

There are also many people who have been working in various fields to change the current situation.
We've experienced the conflicts in globalizm (which includes materialism and westernization) that only seeks efficiency. Now is the time to change the way we think for the next generation.

We are all connected by water

The 2008 award-winning documentary, "Water, the Great Mystery", reveals enlightened new discoveries about the unending potential for water. The film was watched by three milion people in Russia. This acclaimed film won many documentary awards and is available on DVD in English and Japanese.
Scientists, including Noble Prize winners, presented their work on water, and clergy from the largest religious groups discussed the importance of the water in their faith. They reach to the conclusion that "water has memory" and human emotion and thought can effect the structure of water. Science and religion have become closely intertwined, although such a scenario is quite rare in many fields. As the study progresses, scientists are attracted to the mystery of water and reached the concusion that "water holds its memory" or "water has its identity".
This theory has not been supported due to lack of scientific facts, but the film shows that a series of data has been obtained to prove this hypothesis. The idea derives from the fact that about 70 percent of the human body is made up of water as well as other living creatures. If the water can retain memory and has its own identity, why can't we think that all living creatures that are made up of water are all connected like quantum theory - "we are all connected".

To know water is to know yourself.

Q: Please explain the thinking behind the Osaka Metropolis Scheme, as well as its impacts on Japanese society should it be realized.

A: (Professor Ueyama) The Osaka Metropolis Scheme isn’t just about Osaka, it is about changing Japan from a “one state, one system” structure – a structure that has continued for 140 years since the Meiji Restoration – to a “one state, multi-system” structure. I believe everyone feels that if we continue under the present system, where the state controls everything from the center, it will be difficult to respond to an age of dramatic change. Power may have shifted from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ), but the core system of the country has not changed, meaning there will be no reform.

However, it is not possible to change this system as long as the regions remain economically dependent on the state. Therefore, in the “Osaka Metropolis Scheme”, we will first streamline the prefectural and city administrations and cut waste, then under the one plan effectively utilize the assets of Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City to revitalize the economy. Osaka Prefecture’s current debt is 10 trillion yen, but if you combine prefectural and city assets, then you have a total of 16 trillion yen. In particular, Osaka City owns an astounding 25 percent of the land within the city. If we utilize this asset effectively it would not be difficult to attract outside investment. Also, if the prefecture and city cooperate we would also be able to create more efficient infrastructure. In countries that are currently growing economically, it is not the state that guides everything but rather the leaders of large metropolises who use their own discretion to implement new policies and bring in investment from overseas and private companies. If Osaka shows its new growth model to other regions, then we should see similar moves in the Kyushu, Chukyo, and Tokyo areas also.

Q:  That’s an amazing scheme. However, living in Japan (Tokyo), I feel the Japanese are conservative, so even if they agree with the concept, won’t it will be difficult to turn the plan into action?

A: It’s certainly not simple. However, I have many colleagues in various fields who are working in the same direction as me. Also, Osaka in a way isn’t really Japan (laughs). Historically, it is a flourishing commercial city, so without a more free and vibrant movement of people, goods and money, it cannot survive. Osakans also aren’t really sticklers for the rules; they are adaptive people. If anything, the more Asian in this sense.  If Japan’s system becomes inflexible, it will eventually become easy for Japanese people to miss opportunities.It’s very difficult to change Japan as a　whole. That's why we start from Osaka.

Q: There has been an increase in young people acting out of a desire to change society after the March 11 earthquake. As someone promoting the Osaka Metropolis Scheme, do you have any advice for them?

A: There is also a need for young Japanese to change their mindsets. The best way to do this is to live overseas. If you view Japan from the outside, I think you can really feel the differences in other systems and ways of thinking. Society does not change easily (laughs). First, you should start by steadily changing your immediate environment. In order to do this you need to acquire the necessary societal skills, try them out, and learn how to be persuasive.  I began thinking about the “Osaka Metropolis Scheme” 10 years ago. I occasionally had setbacks on the way, but if you believe in your aspirations, then chances will come your way. Even if you make mistakes, if you’re willing to openly admit to them, you will find people willing to help you. If you have aspirations, it’s important to not let yourself get upset and instead progress forward in a positive manner.
Also, I would like young people to have more of an interest in politics. Looking at the newspapers and TV, politicians don’t seem very appealing, but if you speak to them individually, many of them are very bright. However, when you get them all together, the Japanese group mentality takes over and you can’t see this. In order to change this situation, I would like young people – regardless of nationality – to take more a proactive interest in Japanese society and politics.

There would be very few people who think Japanese society is fine the way it is. It’s becoming more difficult even for young people to hold bright hopes for the future. In this way, I hope that if interest in the “Osaka Metropolis Scheme” acts as a catalyst for young people to develop a clear vision (for the future), then no matter how difficult, a “can-do spirit” will spread throughout Japan.

translated by Lance Truong (Monash Univ)

People first! Be a real estate professional at a GLOCAL (GLOBAL yet LOCAL) company!!

Kawasaki is the city in Kanagawa prefecture that has implemented the multicultural coexistence plan. We interviewed Tsuneo Miyagawa, CEO at N-ASSET, the real estate company with a unique business model that follows the "think globally, act locally" principle.

About Tsuneo Miyagawa

Miyagawa was born in Kyoto in 1971. He graduated from Kobe University in 1994 and got his first job at ITOCHU Corporation. In 1999, he joined Noel Co., Ltd and launched a department that offered asset building support for real estate owners. He brought many successful stories to the company including its listing on JASDAQ and Tokyo Stock Exchange Second Section. He acquired N-ASSET and became a CEO in 2009. He opened his first international office in Vietnam in 2011. Three years after, his second international office was opened in Thailand.

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Miyagawa: I had a lot of fun when I was a student - I started a club and organized events. I was interested in entrepreneurship and thought of working at a company where I can learn business. I found a commercial firm suitable for me and got my first job at ITOCHU Corporation where I learnt real estate.

I moved to another real estate firm which my former manager at ITOCHU founded. We started with 10 people. The company grew fast and listed on a stock market although it went bankrupt after the Lehman shock.

My department was closed and went for bidding after the liquidation procedure was concluded. I participated in bidding with a hope to win back the workplace for myself and my colleagues. Luckily, I won the bidding. E-ASSET is the company that was created by the people who shared the tough times with me.

I want the company to be a place where our employees can feel secure, enjoy their work and take new challenges.

We also want to create a new corporate culture - we have been actively hiring new graduates for 6 years when we had only 30 employees.

What are you looking for in new hires? "Be engaged and open-minded" "Ready for challenges"

We focus on a new real estate business model and that is not so easy.

I believe it’s important for new hires to be engaged and open-minded for successful onboarding. I also expect them to be ready for new challenges.

We are looking for English speaking individuals who can accommodate the needs of non-Japanese residents as the city is becoming more globalized.

We hired an international student who is fluent in English and Chinese in April. I am hoping to have a new addition to the team who can collaborate with him and contribute to our international growth. 

We look after each other as we believe those who treat the team well will also treat our customers well. I think real estate is customer oriented business. That's why we value those who strive for excellence in service quality so as to make customers happy. 

(company trip to Danang, Vietnam) 

We offer support to Japanese companies that aim to expand their businesses in Vietnam and Thailand. Unfortunately, Japan is not up to speed with globalization. Our new hires can be of any nationalities as long as they are engaged and ready for new challenges. In return, we will make sure to nature their talents and ensure their professional development.

I believe that we play a key role to make a city appealing. We want to support our city, Takatsu Kawasaki, by following the "act globally and act localy" principle. GLOCAL (Global & Local) is the idea that can spread from Japan to the world.

The Internet has become indispensable in our industry, and we also take initiatives to encourage efficiency and productivity. However, I believe my mission as an employer is to create new jobs. We can grow our business by contributing to the local community and playing a key role in its growth.

I would like to create an environment where our employees can enjoy their work.

My goal is to increase profitability and invest in our employees.

Real estate is one of the service providers and our business is always evolving. Why don't you become a real estate professional under the surpervison of Miyagawa at N-ASSET? 

Awareness of each individual can lead to solving medical issues

Dr. Akira Kawashima
Tokyo Ariake University of Medical and Health Sciences
Professor, Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Faculty of Health Sciences
Doctor, Oriental Medicine Research Center, Department of Natural Medicine
Head of The Institute of Integrative Medicine

Authored works
Illness is a Message from Your Mind (PHP Factory Publishing)
The Invisible Power behind Health (Sun Mark Publishing)
Keep Your Body Warm and Activate Metabolic Enzymes (SHUFUNOTOMO Co., Ltd)

We interviewed Dr. Akira Kawashima, who believes in the importance of Integrative Medicine

Q: You decided to pursue Integrative Medicine when you introduced acupuncture in the US during your stay.?

I brought the needles to the US for personal use, and my friend wanted to give it a try. Words spread of the positive experience my friend had, and I was invited to give a lecture at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology). At first, I refused the offers as I was not a practitioner, but eventually I studied English terminologies and decided to give the lecture. Audience included people with high honor such as a Nobel laureate, and I was surprised with their positive response. I was impressed by their flexible attitude to learn new things, but was overwhelmed with a sense of urgency to introduce Oriental Medicine, including acupuncture, in Japan before anyone else. For years, I studied and learned from specialists on homoeopathy, Chinese Medicine, Alternative Medicine and Qigong. We've gradually created the infrastructure of current Integrative Medicine in Japan. However, Western medicine still plays the central role in the current medical field in Japan, and there are less doctors like me.

There is no one cause of disease, and therefore Western medicine cannot treat or cure all diseases. While Western Medicine has its good side, we need to understand that mental and physical health are inextricably linked. Oriental Medicine emphasizes the connection between the mind and body, and the study draws attention to medical practitioners from all over the world.

Q: Do you think in an ideal world, doctors will be out of work?

I always tell my patients that you know your body the most. I believe that as a doctor, it is our responsibility to help and support how to the patient manages their particular condition. The reality could not be any further from my belief. We still see the tendency where patients rely too much on going to a hospital to seek a doctor's guidance. Patients should be more responsible for their lives and be aware of their body condition, and make important choices. As I've stated in one of my books, people normally start seriously thinking about their own health when diagnosed with terminal cancer, but that's when it's too late. This is why I am advocating preventive healthcare, and encourage people to try to cure the condition before going to the hospital. In reality, patients too often casually drop by the doctor's office to seek advice or treatment, resulting in the doctor to have limited availability to spend time on individuals.

I only see patients on appointments basis. This allows me to spend enough time to talk with them and offer customized advice that fits their individual health needs. Integrative Medicine is still new so we receive many visitors who seek treatment options beyond those that are typically offered in conventional medical care.
Our mission is to educate patients and have them involved in every step of the decision making for their treatment. I believe both parties should be able to have an opinion in the decision making process by sharing information, taking steps to build a consensus about the preferred treatment, and ultimately reaching to an agreement on the treatment to implement.
 

Q: Are you planning to provide training on Integrative Medicine for young medical practitioners who admire your belief and want to offer similar medical practice in the future?

Doctors are generally too busy to think about such things. They tend to be conservative and do not jump into new ideas and thoughts. Even so, I see many people disagree with the current medical system and are seeking for the change. There are many publications discussing this issue. I continue to work at the university hospital because I want to establish a training program where we can teach philosophy of medicine. There are still many challenges but this can be achievable if I have colleagues who share the same goal. A monk once told me, "Doctors should be respectable and noble". Some individuals want to become a doctor because it is a high-paying and stable job, but I believe many young practitioners has the pure motivation to wanting to save people's lives. In order to encourage this thought, We need to shift the focus to preventing diseases and encouraging doctors to spend more time with patients, although this is still not realistic. For that reason, we need to fundamentally change the way we practice medicine.

Dr. Kawashima played a protagonist in a NHK drama when he is a child.
He had many offers from famous TV directors to continue his acting career, however, he quit and decided to pursue his passion in medicine.
Kawashima believes medical practice is rather sacred, like a religion. Focusing on ethics and philosophy of Medicine is necessary and doctors should not be tempted to pursue their own interest.
I hope Dr. Kawashima's idea inspires young medical practitioners. As a patient, we should  take ownership of our own health as we should know our body the most. Doctors are there to provide guidance, but they are not Gods. The "I will protect my own body with my knowledge" mentality and awareness will ultimately resolve medical issues.