University clubs struggle as COVID restricts recruitment

The Mainichi 08 June 2022

University clubs and circles in Japan are struggling to survive as the COVID-19 pandemic has created hurdles for these groups’ recruiting activities since the spring of 2020 when the coronavirus first hit the country, reports The Mainichi.

Gunma University in east Japan saw club activity notifications from 180 student groups in pre-pandemic 2019, but the number dropped to 151 this year. The institution’s student support division says the university asks clubs and circles fulfilling certain criteria, such as five members or more, to submit their activity notifications every year. But over the past two years, the division has seen a series of disbandment notifications from student groups.

One volunteer work group, for example, only had fourth-year students as members in 2020, and it dissolved in March 2021 when they graduated, after they failed to recruit freshman members. In January 2022, a Double Dutch circle also broke up over declining membership.
Full report on The Mainichi site

Receive UWN's free weekly e-newsletters

A new global university ranking with an ethical mission

Aftab Dean

A new university ranking system aims to serve as a catalyst for positive transformation in higher education, ensuring that universities create an environment grounded in integrity and sustainability that inspires and supports students and staff in the development of novel solutions to global challenges.

Promoted by Globethics.net.

SDG progress report launches university into new territory

University of Pretoria staff

In the publication of its first progress report on its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, the University of Pretoria is navigating new territory at the same time as it is acknowledging its clear stewardship role in protecting the environment and biodiversity.

Promoted by the University of Pretoria.

Researchers in the UAE tackle water scarcity at its core

UAE University staff

Water scarcity has long been an issue in countries such as the United Arab Emirates. But the country’s National Water and Energy Center, based at the United Arab Emirates University, is providing solutions for the efficient exploration, development, use, storage and sustainability of the precious resource.

Promoted by United Arab Emirates University.