We had our third session with Rwanda on May 23rd!
This time, we explored how clothing culture has changed over time in the two countries, Japan and Rwanda.
Many people probably have an image of "Kimono" when they think of Japan, and I think the participants were able to get a glimpse of Japanese history particularly in terms of "clothes". For example, we delved into the history of Kimono, and learned how it indicated different social classes as exemplified in "Juni-hitoe" (a 12-layered Kimono). We also learned that western-style clothes were introduced during the Meiji Restoration, and the fact that many women had no choice but to wear "monpe", or baggy trousers, during WWII.
In Japan, women wore kimono in layers to display their social status, while in Rwanda, their hairstyle, not necessarily the type of their clothes, represented their social class. We also found out that antique patterns based on traditional costumes and weapons recently revived and are seen in many modern chic clothes.
During the breakout room discussion, we talked about school life in both countries. It was very interesting to learn that some high school students in Rwanda wake up at 4:30 in the morning to go to school, and that the number of classes and subjects that students take on a school day differs between the two countries.
In our next session (on June 6th), we will be focusing on the different art forms present in the two countries and how they have evolved and altered over time.
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