30SOPHIA MAGAZINE Vol. 18CÉCITOUR TokyoSports for the Visually Impaired21st United Nations WeeksThe visually impaired sports awareness event CÉCITOUR was held at Sophia University’s Yotsuya Campus on May 12, 2024. This event originated in France and its name is derived from the French word cécité, meaning “blindness.” It is a touring event that aims to promote sports for the visually impaired and to develop a network among stakehold-ers. It has been recognized as part of the Impact 2024 Program for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.The event was held outside France for the first time through cooperation between Charly Simo, initiator of the event and member of the French Handisport Federation, and Sophia University’s student group, the Sophia Olympic and Paralympic Student Project “Go Beyond.” Simo participated in a talk on the day of the event, as well as in other ac-tivities such as a blind sports experience, a talk with athletes, promotions by companies and organizations support-ing the visually impaired, and a faculty consultation session and cheese party organized by a Department of French Studies student group.The 21st United Nations Weeks was held from June 7 to 24. This biannual event, initiated in 2013, has entered its 11th year. It features symposiums and other events on a wide range of topics such as peacebuilding, humanitarian aid, and climate change, and is conducted in a hybrid format of in-person and online sessions. The events attracted 1,000 participants.On June 7, an exhibition and lecture by Theo Peters, Minister Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Neatherlands were held presenting the history of the “Visas for Life” issued to Jews fleeing Nazi persecution. The vi-sas were issued by Dutch diplomats as well as Vice-consul Chiune Sugihara during World War II. The day provided insights on the humanitarian efforts of the past. On June 10, a symposium with specialists discussing the historical background of the War in Gaza, ongoing for ten months at the time, and issues of Palestine, provided an opportu-nity to consider future prospects for peace in that region.On June 18, a professional symposium on climate change analyzed existential threats posed by global warming and flooding from heavy rain. Speakers included and a Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF who engaged in discus-sions with participants on achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Mr. Yasuhiro Tsumura, the Director of the United Nations World Food Pro-gramme (WFP) Japan Relations Office gave a lecture at the International Coop-eration and Organizations Careers Session. Workshops featuring lecturers from knowledgeable members of international organizations and private companies also provided information, advice and insights for building a global career. The ses-sion attracted university students, members of the general public, and many high school students.CAMPUSNEWS
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