The logo design was decided by a competition, in which the people of Uchiko created and submitted designs.
Ayaka Yamaoka, who was 12 years old at the time, designed the winning logo. The design consists of the kanji for human being, imposed over a heart. The logo also resembles the first character in Uchiko’s name in kanji. The kanji for human being can also be interpreted as a depiction of Uchiko’s three rivers. The green in the logo represents the beautiful natural environment of Uchiko.
History of Uchiko Town International Association
International dialogues and exchanges are becoming more and more important in the world we live in today.
A notable example of Uchiko’s involvement in this is the program to send some of its civil servants to Rothenburg, Germany, to learn how Uchiko can preserve its celebrated old buildings. This program has been a success, and it has helped Uchiko to come to be regarded as an authority on historical preservation in Ehime.
In accordance with Uchiko’s maxim, “face to face,” the people of Uchiko put much faith in the exchange of citizens in order to achieve an understanding between the world’s nations. Making efforts to foster international exchange, to preserve the old district of Uchiko, and to protect the environment have made Uchiko a good model for similar towns around the world.
What does it mean to be an internationalised society? What makes an effective international exchange? These are questions that concern the people of Uchiko. Uchiko is truly dedicated to promoting the understanding between the nations of the world. This mindset of the Uchiko people allowed for the emergence of the Uchiko Town International Association.
Structure and Work of the Uchiko Town International Association
Information about international exchanges
- Making booklets, brochures, pamphlets and leaflets
- UTIA information and publications
- Providing books, brochures, UTIA information, videos and much more
Cultural meetings
- Seminars on intercultural exchange
- Events to foster the understanding of foreign countries and cultures
- English, German and Chinese classes
- International festivals, parties and events
Promoting dialogue through international exchanges
- Overseas exchange for junior and senior high school students
- Overseas studies for adults
- Homestay arrangements
Supporting volunteerism
- Arranging for homestay families or host families
- Arranging for event assistants
- Performances by traditional Japanese artists
- Training and providing translators and interpreters
The Volunteer Planning Committee of the International Association
The International Exchange Planning Committee plans and executes all of the UTIA’s activities. This committee consists of volunteers from the Uchiko area. The members can be of any age or career track. An interest in promoting internationalisation is the only requirement. The committee holds an executive meeting every month. New members are always welcome. If you would like to join, please contact the UTIA.