On Thursday, April 23, our school held a special event in celebration of United Nations Spanish Language Day, established in 2010. The event was organized for students in Grades 7 to 10 as well as Grade 11 and 12 members of the Spanish Club, with the aim of broadening students’ international perspectives and deepening their understanding of multicultural coexistence through language learning. Guests connected with diplomatic and consular organizations were invited to promote greater awareness of the Spanish language and the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

In line with our school’s educational philosophy of Wakon Eisai—valuing the Japanese spirit while fostering an understanding of diverse cultures and the ability to take initiative in the international community—our school has focused attention on the Spanish language, which is gaining increasing global significance today.

Spanish is one of the world’s major languages, spoken as a native language by more than 500 million people across Spain and many countries in Latin America. In particular, the Latin American region—including countries such as Mexico and Colombia—has become increasingly important internationally in areas such as natural resources and manufacturing, and the value of Spanish continues to grow alongside the region’s economic development. In the United States as well, the growing Spanish-speaking population has further strengthened the language’s presence in society.

In addition, Spanish-language culture, including music and film, continues to expand across borders worldwide. Through this event, students were encouraged not only to encounter a new language, but also to explore the cultures and societies behind it, helping them develop broader and more multifaceted perspectives on the world.

The event began with opening remarks from Rubio, followed by a video message from Fernando Curcio, Cultural and Scientific Counsellor at the Embassy of Spain in Japan. In his message, he encouraged the students in the school’s Spanish Club and introduced aspects of Spanish culture, history, and art.

The event began with opening remarks from Rubio,

followed by a video message from Fernando Curcio, Cultural and Scientific Counsellor at the Embassy of Spain in Japan. In his message, he encouraged the students in the school’s Spanish Club and introduced aspects of Spanish culture, history, and art.

Next, a congratulatory video message from students at Belgrano Day School in Argentina was shown. The school is a member of the international educational network Round Square, which also includes our school and private schools from approximately 50 countries around the world.

Following the video, honorary consul Kenji Sakamoto delivered congratulatory remarks and gave a presentation on the role and responsibilities of the honorary consulate.

During the event, Joshua G. (Grade 12), a member of the Spanish Club who is also studying Spanish in the International Baccalaureate Programme, gave a presentation about both the challenges and enjoyment of learning Spanish. He also shared his dream of using his language skills to watch professional soccer matches in Spanish-speaking countries in the future.

To commemorate the opening of Spanish Language Week, Honorary Consul Sakamoto then participated in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting.

Vice Principal Kageyama also presented certificates of appreciation to Honorary Consul Sakamoto and Honorary Consulate Director Maruyama in recognition of their support.

Afterward, participants moved to the music room, where Hagi (Grade 8) gave a presentation

and students studying music performed “La Bamba,” one of the most iconic songs associated with Spanish-speaking culture.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Kimura (Grade 11).

In addition, our school designated the following week as “Spanish Language Week.” Posters introducing Spanish-speaking cultures and related topics were displayed throughout the campus to further encourage interest in the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures.

Below are some comments shared by participating students:

“It was a very enjoyable event. I studied Spanish in Grade 6 and really enjoyed it, which is why I joined the Spanish Club. Spanish is a very useful language, so I think everyone should study it!” (Grade 8)

“I joined the Spanish Club because I enjoy learning new languages. I would like to learn more about the culture as well, and I hope to organize events in the future. Performing Latin music was difficult at first, but it became more enjoyable as we practiced.” (Grade 10)

“I joined the Spanish Club after an exchange student from the United States recommended it to me last year and told me they were studying Spanish as a second language. I was happy that more students learned about the Spanish Club through this event. Since I am studying Spanish, I would also like to learn more about and experience cultural traditions such as flamenco.” (Grade 11)

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Honorary Consul Sakamoto and Honorary Consulate Director Maruyama for taking time out of their busy schedules to join us, deliver their presentations, and encourage our students.