Inauguration ceremony of Japan corner at AIUB Library
The American International University–Bangladesh (AIUB) proudly hosted the inauguration ceremony of the Japan Corner, a dedicated space in the university library that aims to foster cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and mutual understanding between Japan and Bangladesh.
The event took place on Monday, 12 May 2025, with distinguished guests from the Embassy of Japan, AIUB administration, faculty members, and students in attendance.
The Japan Corner was established through sponsorship by The Nippon Foundation, Japan, with administrative support from the Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, and coordination from the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh. It features a curated collection of books, multimedia resources, and cultural artefacts that promote Japanese language, arts, and education.
The collection comprises 186 books donated under the Read Japan Project, initiated by the Nippon Foundation in 2008. The project seeks to promote a deeper understanding of Japan by distributing English-language books about the country to universities and libraries worldwide. Now administered by the Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, the initiative targets young researchers, opinion leaders, and intellectuals interested in Japan and its global impact.
The ceremony was graced by His Excellency SAIDA Shinichi, Honourable Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, as the chief guest. He was warmly welcomed by Ms Nadia Anwar, Founder Member and Hon'ble Chairman of the AIUB Board of Trustees; Dr Hasanul A. Hasan, Founder Member; Mr. Ishtiaque Abedin, Founder Member; and Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, Member of the Board of Trustees.
Also present were Professor Dr Saiful Islam, Vice Chancellor; Professor Dr Abdur Rahman, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Dr. Nisar Ahmed, Treasurer; Professor Dr Manzur H Khan, Proctor; Group Captain (Retd) Dr. Mohammad Zahidul Islam Khan, Registrar; and the respected deans of various faculties. From the Embassy of Japan, Mr Yamamoto Kyohei, Second Secretary and Deputy Head of the Public Relations and Culture Section, accompanied the Ambassador.
