14 Nov 2021

The annual Japan-Botswana Children’s Painting Exhibition, which is an art exchange between Ben Thema Primary School in Gaborone and Chigasaki Primary School in Japan, is an opportunity for the learners to interact and know more about each other’s culture.

Speaking during the opening of 8th exhibition at Ben Thema, the Japanese Ambassador, Mr Hoshiyama Takashi said the programme, which would exhibit 144 art paintings for Japanese pupils, only targets Standard Threes from both countries.

Ambassador Takashi said the exhibition, which would last until November 18, would be an opportunity for Ben Thema pupils to have a touch of Japanese children’s paintings.

He said the art exchange programme had borne fruit and one could touch on Japanese life through their paintings, adding that he hopee to see them visiting Japan in the future to learn more.

He revealed that they had a lot of traditional dances and wore kimonos at important events, adding that their technology was amazing as they used robots to do jobs.

The ambassador also applauded Tsukuzi Multicultural & Youth Plaza for their strong will to continue supporting the programme.

Their counterparts, Ben Thema Primary School, he said, would exhibit their 60 paintings in December in Japan, where Chigasaki pupils would enjoy their paintings for Christmas.

Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation, Mr Nkoloi Nkoloi said the exhibition would continue the legacy of teaching the pupils about each other’s culture.

He said he had the opportunity to view Ben Thema pupils’ paintings in Japan, where they were displayed in shopping malls, schools and other places of interest.

Mr Nkoloi encouraged the pupils to learn more about Japan and share as much art as possible.

He also encouraged them to study in Japan in the future and also to believe in themselves.

The love of art, he said, would expose their other artistic talents such as drama, acting, and many other careers. ENDS