To commemorate this important cultural event, Stellenbosch University hosted the first-ever Japanese Film Festival on campus, marking the 30th edition of the festival. Co-organized by the Stellenbosch University Japan Centre in conjunction with the Office of the Consul of Japan, the festival was held at Neelsie Cinema and offered an enthralling look into the world of Japanese cinema. This festival, which was aimed at showing the richness and diversity of Japan, featured the themes of family, nature, craftsmanship, and how to seek human connections in a richly curated repertoire of films.
The two-day festival that was comprised of four films defined every different face of Japanese life for the viewers. Only the Cat Knows talked about family life while Restaurant from the Sky was a tribute to Japan and nature's friendship. Many audiences were made curious of other productions, such as the stop-motion animation by Takeshi Yashiro, the precise story of how the country prevails. Last, but not the least, Show Me the Way to the Station reminded viewers that a true friend guides you on and never lets you give up.
Thami Mahlobo, Internationalisation Support Coordinator at Stellenbosch University International, highlighted the festival’s alignment with SU’s mission for international engagement. “The Stellenbosch University Japan Centre’s cultural initiatives, like this festival, play a key role in fostering academic and cultural exchange,” he noted. “Through events, lectures, and seminars, we’re building a bridge of understanding between Japan and South Africa”.
The Consul of Japan in Cape Town, Mr. Katamoto Masahiro, shared his enthusiasm at the event, noting how cultural exchange deepens our understanding of each other. “Through festivals like this, we discover our common humanity”, he said, expressing his hope for more such initiatives to connect communities and encourage collaboration. Reflecting on this special occasion, he noted, “This is our first event outside Cape Town, and I hope it’s the start of many more to reach new audiences and bring people together”.
Festivals like this underscore the importance of multiculturalism in universities. Engaging with other cultures not only broadens students’ worldviews but also prepares them to excel in a globalized society. Exposure to different traditions, languages, and perspectives enriches learning, fosters mutual respect, and encourages students to become culturally aware citizens and innovators.
The festival drew a heartfelt response from attendees, whose reflections underscored the impact of cultural exchange. Reagan Johnson, a second-year BA Humanities student and student leader, shared, “I’ve never experienced storytelling quite like this. It was simple yet profoundly impactful. Amazing”. Similarly, Uviwe Booi, a BSc Agric student and Intern for Staff Internationalisation, added, “The screening was enlightening. I learned so much about Japanese culture and life through these films”.
Stellenbosch University Japan Centre (SUJC) aims to be a leading hub for academic, research and cultural exchange between South Africa and Japan, contributing to Stellenbosch University’s principal mission to advance research excellence and knowledge of broader social benefit. During the opening of the festival, Professor Scarlett Cornelissen, the Director of the SUJC stated that, “the centre is active in research, teaching and engagement” which affords the opportunity for academic and cultural exchange. The centre hosts various events and does offer Japanese language for the students.
