Father Yoshiki Sekiya, a Salesian priest, began our meeting by celebrating a Mass, during which Sister Augustine Matchuendem renewed her vows. After Mass, we enjoyed listening to the priest play and sing songs from his childhood. Then the presentation began.
In Japan, where higher education began late, there were two models at the beginning of higher education for women.
The first model was created by the first European and American Christians when they came to Japan. At the time, education was focussed on teaching English. Our CND school belonged to this model.
Our first stop in Fukushima was Sakura no Seibo Junior College, under the direction of Ms. Minami Nishiuchi and owned by our sisters. A very warm welcome was extended by our sisters, the director and all the students and staff. All kinds of treats were offered to us. After a guided tour of the college, the sisters talked to us about the origins of the school. Once the visits were completed, Ms. Nishiuchi spoke to us about the school and the situation of women’s education in Japan. A game of questions and answers followed and Father Aimé and Julie served as interpreters. We all received gift bags with “Sakura no Seibo Junior College” stamped on them. We met and talked with the students of the college and participated in a game. Pictures were taken in a friendly and pleasant climate. The students put on a musical performance, which was very much appreciated. We then left the college.
