From Strangers to Community Builders
The Role of University Students in Regional Engagement and Tourism Promotion
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52731/lbds.v005.441Keywords:
Strangers, Regional Engagement, Regional Revitalization, Volunteer Events, Local Resources, TourismAbstract
This study aims to clarify the impact that volunteer events managed by university students from outside the region have on interactions with local residents and tourism promotion. Using the "Hirose River Utilization Promotion Project" implemented in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture in 2025 as a case study, analysis was conducted through interviews with six participants. As a result, the extraordinary spatial experience and active involvement of students were highly evaluated, and it was confirmed that they would increase their motivation to participate in the community in the future. In particular, the planning and management by university students brought new perspectives and vitality to the area and was favorably received by local residents. It was suggested that collaboration between universities and communities has the potential to encourage a reevaluation of local resources and a change in resident awareness.
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