Report

As part of the Inter-Island Sustainability Educational Program’s student-led projects, the “Ryudai Pantry Nuchi Maaru” was launched. Ryudai Pantry Nuchi Maaru (琉大パントリーぬちまーる) was established by students who participated in the short-term Hawaii study programs in 2023 and 2024. The initiative was inspired by Hale Mālama at Kauaʻi Community College, a partner institution visited during the 2023 program.

Hale Mālama, which designates “House of Care”¹ in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), promotes student health, safety, well-being, and quality of life (QOL) through various activities. As part of this effort, the Ho‘ai Food & Goods Pantry program operates in partnership with the Hawai‘i Foodbank – Kauaʻi Branch, providing students with food and daily necessities free of charge.

After observing these initiatives on-site, the participating students discussed whether similar support could be implemented at the University of the Ryukyus. To gain recognition and involve the broader university community, they actively held briefing sessions for faculty and staff. On November 4, 2024, during an international symposium, “Ryudai Pantry Nuchi Maaru” was officially launched.

The name Nuchi Maaru originates from the Uchināguchi (Okinawan language). “Nuchi” means “life,” and “maaru” means “to revolve” or “to circulate.” The name reflects the project’s rationale of collecting unused furniture, clothing, and other items and redistributing them to students in need. By doing so, the program seeks to give new life to unused items, ensuring their continued use rather than disposal. This meaningful initiative emphasizes sustainability while supporting students’ needs.

Daily activities can be viewed on Instagram.
We sincerely welcome the warm support of students, faculty, and staff of the University of the Ryukyus.

¹Hale means “house,” and mālama carries meanings such as “to care for,” “preserve,” or “protect.”
Reference: Wehewehe Wikiwiki Hawaiian Language Dictionaries, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo,
https://hilo.hawaii.edu/wehe/.

琉大パントリーぬちまーる【NUCHI MAARU】