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Experiencing Japanese martial arts at UEF for the first time

09/10/2022

SEPTEMBER 9 - The Faculty of Languages and International Cultures and the Department of Student Services co-organized Japanese Martial Arts Festival to create a place where students can exchange and enhance knowledge through extracurricular activities as well as introduce Japanese martial arts to UEFers. This is also an impressive activity to celebrate the new academic year 2022-2023.

Attending this program was Mr. Shiraishi Hideyuki – Head, Department of Culture and Education & Consul General, Consulate General of Japan in HCMC, Mr. Nguyen Cong Tanh – Chairman, Vietnam-Japan Friendship Association, Ms. Phan Thi Minh Nguyet – Vice Chairman & General Secretary, Vietnam-Japan Friendship Association, and Mr. Malte Stokhof in charge of Shobukan Dojo Martial Arts Academy.

The first Japanese Martial Arts Festival held at UEF

From UEF, there were Dr. Nhan Cam Tri – Vice President, Board of Management, Dr. Vo Van Thanh Than – Dean, Faculty of Languages and International Cultures with faculty members and students.

Mr. Shiraishi Hideyuki presented at the event

Mr. Shiraishi Hideyuki said at the Japan Martial Arts Festival, "I suppose activities regarding Japanese culture are held frequently in Vietnam, but martial arts festivals similar to today are quite uncommon. Vietnamese people seem to enjoy Japanese martial arts, which is a traditional Japanese form. Japanese martial arts emphasize both the technique and the spirit of martial arts, in addition to respecting etiquette. I would like to extend my gratitude to UEF, the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Association and the individuals responsible for organizing this program.”

Ms. Phan Thi Minh Nguyet emphasized the program highlighting the Vietnam-Japan friendship

Representing the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City, Ms. Phan Thi Minh Nguyet said that this program connected martial arts enthusiasts together, and the Vietnam-Japan friendship would thrive further through such activities.

At the festival, students learned about 4 different martial arts including: Karate, Kendo, Aikido, and Katori Shinto Ryu. Mr. Malte Stokhof pointed out and clarified the fundamental movements of each discipline, as well as the differences between the armor sets used in traditional and modern Japanese martial arts.

Mr. Malte Stokhof introduced the origin, basic movements and spirit of Japanese martial arts

The spirit of self-victory is the most key aspect in martial arts and its etiquette is applied on a daily basis to hone perseverance, patience, and responsibility. The rules and regulations of martial arts was introduced to students.

Martial arts students performed basic movements of each discipline

Students also had the chance to observe the basic movements of each discipline through martial arts performances by students. Especially, students could gain practical experience when practicing with experts in classes.

Students participated and practiced martial arts with experts

The Japanese Martial Arts Festival provided students with a variety of interesting and valuable information, helping them to relax after a long day of classes and gain more opportunity to get access to Japanese martial arts knowledge. With a supportive learning environment, students can practice regularly to develop and protect their physical health, and then apply martial arts spirit to their daily life.

Nguyen Le

Photo: Media Team