11 September 2025
Anita Kartika Pasaribu
FIB USU PR - On Thursday, September 11, 2025, the Japanese Literature Study Program, Faculty of Humanities, held its fourth Japanese Language Presentation Competition for Students in 2025 for the North Sumatra and Aceh regions. The event, held at the FIB USU Pagelaran Building, with the theme "Cross-Cultural Understanding," featured eight participants from various universities. Also in attendance were Mr. Furugori Toru (Consulate General of Japan in Medan), Prof. Drs. Mauly Purba, M.A., Ph.D., (Vice Dean I of FIB USU), Alimansyar, SS, M.A., Ph.D., (Head of the Japanese Literature Study Program), the Study Secretary, lecturers, and Japanese Literature students. The panel of judges consisted of Ms. Shigemura Miyoko (Japan Foundation Jakarta), Mr. Furunobu Koichi (Young Consul of Japan in Medan), and Mr. Uchida Yuichi (Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA).
Irwan, S.S., M.Si., emphasized the importance of a never-give-up spirit.
"Those of us who quit are those who fall seven times but rise eight. This means, no matter how hard we struggle, don't be discouraged. Stay optimistic. Whether you win or lose, I hope today will be a positive moment for all of us," he said.
The event was officially opened by the Head of the Japanese Literature Study Program at USU, Alimansyar, S.S., M.A., Ph.D., who stated that this activity provides a forum for students to showcase their learning outcomes.
"We hope that students will not only learn the language, but also be able to understand Japanese culture more deeply," he said.
The Head of the Japanese Literature Study Program also explained that this year there will be no internal selection for USU students.
"Student interest in the competition has recently declined, so we only made an announcement. Students are the ones who are motivated to participate. Essentially, there is no selection process," he explained.
He also assessed that students' pronunciation skills have improved, partly due to frequent practice through watching shows like anime.
"Perhaps many are still relaxed. If it's announced during lectures, it's usually easier to motivate students. The study program and the teachers will continue to encourage students to participate in future competitions," he added.
He also emphasized that the competition's scope is limited to Aceh and North Sumatra because it is a selection stage leading to the national level in Jakarta.
Prof. Drs. Mauly Purba, M.A., Ph.D., (Vice Dean I of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, University of North Sumatra) stated that this activity can spur student achievement at various levels.
"This type of activity can improve student achievement, not only at the local level, but also nationally and internationally," he said.
Mr. Furugori Toru (Consulate General of Japan in Medan) also emphasized the importance of understanding the culture behind the language.
"Memorizing vocabulary and grammar alone is not enough to master a foreign language. It's important to understand the culture and feelings of its speakers. Effort and hard work will pay off," he said.
After the performances of the eight participants, the event was enlivened by a Fun Stage featuring a Yosakoi performance, dance, singing with musical accompaniment, and a quiz about Japan.
The following are the winners of the 4th Japanese Language Presentation Competition for Students in 2025 for the North Sumatra and Aceh regions:
1. Hana Nazihah Siregar (1st Place)
2. Eka Aditya Syahputra (2nd Place)
3. Hannah Pertiwi Duha (3rd Place)
4. Muhammad Alqi Sihombing (Consolation Winner)
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