As global interconnectedness increases, secondary schools must develop students’ intercultural skills, language proficiency, and collaborative abilities. This study examines an international collaborative learning initiative inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy, which emphasizes community, mutual respect, and shared humanity. The project connected an international undergraduate program at a local university and a recently launched international program at a high school, both of which are in western Japan, and was supported by the non-profit organization Kecher Africa. Over six weeks, students collaborated through virtual exchange and project-based learning to address global challenges, including climate change and education inequality.

Drawing on research in Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), virtual exchange, and project-based learning, the study analyzed reflections from participating students to evaluate the program’s impact and challenges. Results indicate that the project enhanced cross-cultural understanding, global awareness, language confidence, and personal growth. These outcomes reflect the Ubuntu spirit, as students developed empathy, mutual respect, and a sense of interconnectedness.

Challenges included language proficiency gaps, short program duration, technical issues, and misaligned expectations, which constrained deeper engagement. To address these barriers, the study recommends pre-program language support, extended project timelines, grouping students by shared interests, and enhanced facilitator training in digital intercultural communication.

By integrating these strategies with evidence-based practices, high school and university international programs can more effectively cultivate the Ubuntu spirit and provide inclusive, impactful global learning experiences that prepare students for a connected world.

Authors:
Mika Tamura, Kyushu University, Japan
Hyunjung Bang, Kyushu University, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Mika Tamura is a Professor in the International Center, Faculty of Engineering at Kyushu University in Japan. She is also Coordinator for the International Undergraduate Programs in English at the School of Engineering. Her research interests lie mainly in English for Specific Purposes (ESP), English Medium Instruction (EMI), and International Co-learning. She has a TESOL-oriented MA in English Linguistics and completed her PhD in Social and Cultural Studies.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mika-tamura-b7435779

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