SUISA AND INTERNATIONALISATION 　

Shimane University International Students and Researchers Association (SUISA) officially launched on 20th May 2000 when it held its first AGM (Annual General Meeting) and elections. SUISA members range widely: students, visiting researchers and staff of Shimane University, both foreign and Japanese persons. During the two years of its existence, SUISA has 77 members from 31 countries. The aim is to create an environment in which members can exchange cultural views and other norms among themselves and with others in the University community and Matsue City, and thus promote internationalisation. Moreover, it also aims to organise and participate in national and international events within Japan as appropriate, in accordance with objectives of the Association, as determined by the Executive and the members. Among the several objectives, the need for culture and idea exchange between the members of Shimane University and the community in Matsue is emphasised in SUISA's document. Non-University members are welcome to join the association as well.

SUISA has been enjoying its third year, and the 23^rd of February 2002 had its third Annual General Meeting and elections. The following persons were elected: President: Md. Taufiqul Islam “Mithil” (Bangladesh), Vice-President: Sergio Lucio Torres (Brazil), Secretary: Chrispinus David Rubanza (Tanzania), Public Relations Officer: David Lopez Cornelio (Peru), Treasurer: Shadrach Kamalitina Noku (Papua New Guinea), Member: Mohammad Anwar Hossain (Bangladesh) and Diego Armando Rendon Giraldo (Colombia). The body has been operating under the patron, who is a professor of Shimane University and working closely with those involved with the well being of the foreign students and researchers.
The establishment and maintaining of good relations with the existing societies within and outside the University is in fact one of SUISA's objectives. SUISA has been participating in and organising several international exchange programs, including sports events, welcoming and farewell parties, and planning to help the needy in developing countries. SUISA needs your support to be able to put their visions into reality. You may contact the President at mithil73@yahoo.com (Tel/Fax: 0852-31-2026) or the P.R.O. at davizo@hotmail.com for further information.

Photo: Seated from L-R: Md. Taufilqul Islam Mithil, Sergio Lucio Torres, Chrispinus David Rubanza, and David Lopez Cornelio. Standing from L-R, Diego Armando Gendon Giraldo, Shadrach Kamalitina Noku, and Mohammad Anwar Hossain.