Sophia University hosted “Colombia Day” on October 17. The event was inspired by a request from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, our partner institution in Colombia, during a visit by Sophia University’s President Yoshiaki Terumichi to Bogotá in October 2023

The event began with greetings from President Terumichi and Ms. Angela Durán, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the Republic of Colombia in Japan. President Terumichi highlighted the university’s strong ties with Colombia through its partnerships with Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and Universidad de los Andes, as well as the “LAP (Latin America Program),” a study abroad initiative involving 13 universities across six Latin American countries, supported by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

Ambassador Durán expressed her gratitude for the event and hoped it would serve as an opportunity for attendees to learn about Colombia’s rich and diverse culture.

Following the opening remarks, Mr. Pablo Cardona, Third Secretary of the Colombian Embassy in Japan, delivered a presentation titled “Discovering the Charms of Colombia,” which introduced the country’s culture, history, and remarkable biodiversity.

The event also featured a film screening, showcasing “Cuando las aguas se juntan,” a film depicting women fighting for peace amidst civil conflict, and “El BEAT,” which highlights musicians from San Basilio de Palenque, the first free town in Latin America.

To conclude the event, attendees enjoyed a tasting of Colombian coffee and food, organized with the support of the Colombian Embassy in Japan. A variety of specialty coffees selected by the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia were served, along with traditional dishes such as empanadas and cocadas.