The War Childhood Museum regularly welcomes groups from around the world for its educational programs. Last week, a special visit came from Japan, led by Haruka Kurosawa, a former Museum intern who spent a year working with us. Kurosawa, now a teacher in Japan, returned with a group of ten students and teachers as part of an educational program he organizes through his company. The group toured the exhibition and took part in a peacebuilding workshop.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Kurosawa said his time at the Museum shaped his decision to bring Japanese students to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“I really think the Museum has the power to prevent the next war. I’ve visited so many museums, but this is the only one where the objects truly make me think,” he said.
One student from Kyoto reflected on the resilience of children featured in the exhibition:
“Even in serious situations, they didn’t lose hope. They looked to the future. I know it’s hard to make the world more peaceful, but if we give up hope, we cannot succeed.”
Another student noted the unique perspective offered by the Museum:
“There’s no place in Japan where history is told through the eyes of a child. It made me think about how my generation can make the world safer for those who come after us.”
Stories That Travel Beyond Borders
A teacher in the group emphasized that the lessons learned in Sarajevo will resonate back home:
“Japan is not at war, but war is real and ongoing elsewhere. Our youth can respond to these stories, and we can share them with their families and communities.”
Another teacher added:
“Every exhibit is grounded in reality. Each story has its own impact and resonates strongly with the person who reads it.”
Through visits like this, the Museum’s stories continue to inspire conversations about peace far beyond Bosnia and Herzegovina.
