【Project Activities】

An online lecture series co-hosted by the Japan–Sri Lanka Baseball Friendship Association and the University of Miyazaki. In collaboration with organizations such as JICA that promote sport development overseas, the program shares—in an online format—baseball situations around the world that differ greatly from Japan, targeting audiences both in Japan and abroad.

【Project Background】

In 2021, COVID-19 spread globally and international travel as well as sport-based exchange became difficult under strict restrictions. In response, stakeholders launched this initiative as a way to contribute even under those conditions.

【Project Objective】

By introducing baseball contexts worldwide as well as local cultures and tourist destinations, encourage greater interest in the world and connect this to efforts such as human resource development through baseball, peacebuilding, and regional revitalization.

【Project Area】

Education through Sport

【Methods】

Seminars / forums

【Outcomes】

Supporters of the collaborating organizations increased, and horizontal networks among organizations—including professional baseball teams and independent leagues—were strengthened, expanding the circle of support for baseball development and generating various spillover effects.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

“Even during COVID-19, this course helped me learn about many things around the world.” “Listening to this course strengthened my resolve to apply for the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers.” “With a lecture series and an outstanding lineup of speakers unlike anything before, it’s wonderful that such content can be watched for free.”

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

A key reflection is that the program is often misunderstood as merely a gathering of baseball enthusiasts. We need to articulate and communicate more clearly that we develop people through baseball and contribute to building a peaceful world through baseball.

【URL】

https://www.miyazaki-u.ac.jp/newsrelease/topics-info/50-1.html