Nanzan University's Faculty of Foreign Studies, Department of British and American Studies aims to educate our students so that they will be able to freely use English as the now established international language and to communicate effectively in a multitude of situations. We strive to provide opportunities to deepen their understanding of different cultures from all over the world and we also provide them with skills and abilities to examine their own culture from a global point of view. We hope they will be able to use all of the knowledge and skills they have learned to contribute to both local and international society.

It is not enough to be able to speak English. If the content of when is spoken does not have substance, then there is little point in having English speaking ability.

Being strictly bound to one's own culture is not beneficial in a time where the multitudes of cultures in modern global society are clashing and mixing together, creating new blends of cultures. It is important to learn how to keep one's identity when functioning in modern multicultural society, by learning about different cultures and becoming more internationally aware. In contrast to the concept of Japanese traditional culture, often reserved and quiet, what is needed now is a "do it yourself", forward moving attitude, and the mental strength and perseverance to create plans and put them into practice.

Our government-funded GP program is designed for "the development of students' English communication ability to enable them to stand at the forefront of a multicultural, global society". This program will provide opportunities for intercultural interaction with universities from other countries and in doing so it aims to maximize our students' potential. This program and its challenges could only come to fruition due to the unique international environment of Nanzan University. Many of the events held by the GP project are open to the public and so you are welcome to participate along with our students to partake in the true Nanzan experience. If you would like to see more of what we have been doing, please check our website:（http://eibei-gp.nanzan-u.ac.jp/).

We ask that you see for yourself the action of our students and their ability to communicate their message to the world with confidence and vitality of youth.

Dr. Tatsuya Suzuki