UNAIR NEWS – A team of nine Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) students, part of the KKN BBK-6 community service program, recently conducted a series of outreach activities in Sonokwijenan Subdistrict, Sukomanunggal Subdistrict, Surabaya. Among their featured initiatives was a workshop introducing Japanese calligraphy, or Shodou, to local children and teens.
The program’s coordinator, Marsha, a student of Japanese Literature, said the idea was inspired by her academic background and the cultural potential of Sonokwijenan, widely known as the “Village of Talents,” which actively promotes visual and performing arts.
“During our preliminary site visit, we met Mr. Istoyo, the Village of Talents coordinator, who mentioned that Japanese calligraphy had never been introduced in the area, despite strong local interest in the arts. The timing felt right, especially with the Surabaya city government currently building cultural ties with Japan,” she explained.
Resourceful teaching despite limited supplies
Held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, the workshop welcomed 16 participants ranging from 4 to 15 years old. Although traditional calligraphy tools like suzuri, shitajiki, and bunchin weren’t available, the students conducted the session using more accessible materials such as brushes, ink, and paper. Every member of the student team actively participated in delivering the lesson, which was both interactive and engaging.
Participants learned the fundamentals of Shodou, including brush-holding techniques and how to write the kanji character 和 (wa), meaning “peace.” The character was selected to reflect the core values of harmony and tranquility found in Japanese culture.
“One of the participants was just four years old, yet he showed great enthusiasm. The parents were also incredibly supportive. This proves that foreign cultures can be warmly embraced when introduced through enjoyable and educational experiences,” said Marsha.
Vision for sustainable impact
Marsha noted that the program received enthusiastic backing from local leaders, including Mr. Surip, the head of Neighborhood Unit 3, and Mr. Istoyo from the Village of Talents. They expressed hopes that the program could evolve into a regular part of the community’s cultural and artistic activities.
“We hope this Shodou initiative continues, and perhaps even becomes integrated into the cultural exchange programs currently being fostered between the Surabaya government and Japan. We would welcome support from the university, local government, and organizations like the Japan Foundation to help make this a lasting effort,” she added.
Author: Rosali Elvira Nurdiansyarani
Editor : Khefti Al Mawalia
