Japanese studies

The Department of Japanese Studies at University of Dhaka has concluded its three-day programme marking its 10th founding anniversary. The closing ceremony was held on 28 April 2026 at the Professor Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury Auditorium.

The celebration featured a range of activities, including debate competitions, cultural performances, and sports contests, bringing together students in a vibrant display of academic and extracurricular engagement.

The closing session was presided over by Professor Dr Md Jahangir Alam, Chair of the Department. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Economic and Planning Adviser to the Prime Minister, attended as Chief Guest. Special Guest Professor Dr Abdus Salam, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) of Dhaka University, was also present. Among the distinguished guests were Professor Dr Mohammad Moinul Islam, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and Aoyagi Yu, Head of Public Relations and Culture at the Embassy of Japan in Dhaka. The welcome address was delivered by Professor Dr Abdullah-Al Mamun, while the programme was hosted by students Maria Rahman and Akib Hossain.

In his address, Titumir emphasised the need to transform Dhaka University into a more research-oriented institution. He noted that universities should focus on producing skilled human resources, generating new knowledge, and nurturing responsible citizens. Highlighting the strong bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Japan, he stated that Japan remains one of Bangladesh’s largest development partners, with around 200 Japanese companies currently operating in the country. He also underscored opportunities for expanded cooperation in infrastructure, ports, and the power sector, alongside growing prospects for higher education and scholarships through organisations such as Japan Foundation and Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Professor Abdus Salam described “Japanese Studies Day” as more than a celebration, noting that it represents a meaningful integration of academic, cultural, and athletic engagement. He added that such initiatives play a vital role in fostering students’ intellectual and personal development.

The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes among winners of the various competitions, marking the end of a successful and engaging anniversary celebration.