Dhaka, August 23, 2026: The Animation Track of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC) at American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) inaugurated “BEYOND THE FRAME: Stories in Augmented Reality,” a three-day exhibition showcasing the creative works of students of both the Animation and Journalism Tracks. The exhibition was inaugurated on August 23 at 2:30 p.m. at the D Building Lobby of AIUB and will remain open through August 25, 2026.

The exhibition features students’ creative works in augmented reality (AR), animation, digital art and interactive storytelling, including AR experiences inspired by AIUB student organizations as well as the landscapes, people and stories of Dhaka. Selected virtual reality (VR) and other technology-based demonstrations are also being showcased.

The opening ceremony was graced by Her Excellency Nina P. Cainglet, Philippine Ambassador to Bangladesh, as the guest of honor. Among the distinguished guests present were Dr. Hasanul A. Hasan, Founder Member, Board of Trustees; Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, Member, Board of Trustees and Former Vice Chancellor of AIUB; Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam, Vice Chancellor of AIUB, Professor Dr. Tazul Islam, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS); Associate Dean Dr. Faria Sultana; Professor Dr. Pradip Kumar Panday, Head, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication; Professor Dr. Manzur H Khan, Proctor; faculty members from JMC and other departments; administrative officials; advisers; guests; media representatives; and students.

In her address, Ambassador Nina P. Cainglet highlighted the growing importance of the creative industries and the Philippines' significant contribution to the global animation sector. She noted that the Philippines has established itself as a trusted centre for animation, particularly in digital and interactive media, and referred to the country’s Philippine Creative Industries Development Act as an important framework for nurturing and strengthening the creative sector.

The Ambassador also highlighted the expertise of Filipino creative professionals in areas such as 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, post-production and character design. She noted that Filipino animators and creative professionals have contributed to internationally acclaimed productions associated with major global companies and emphasized the capacity of Filipino creatives to develop original intellectual property, stories and digital content rooted in their own culture and imagination.

Drawing attention to the possibilities for Bangladesh-Philippines collaboration, Ambassador Cainglet observed that both countries have young, talented and digitally connected populations, rich cultures and compelling stories capable of reaching international audiences. She identified opportunities for collaboration through the exchange of creative talent and services, sharing of expertise and best practices, capacity-building initiatives, training and scholarships, skills development, technology transfer, professional upskilling, and partnerships among educational institutions, industry associations, creative professionals and governments.

Speaking about the future of young animators, the Ambassador described the exhibition as more than a collection of student projects, emphasizing that it represents the beginning of a creative ecosystem in which young people can experiment with new technologies, tell stories in innovative ways, document their communities and develop skills that connect them with audiences beyond Bangladesh. She encouraged students to remain authentic, combine discipline, engage with new forms of visual storytelling and take pride in their own stories and identities.

She also expressed appreciation for the initiative undertaken by AIUB and particularly acknowledged Ms. Rani Elen V. Ramos, Lecturer, Animation Track, JMC, who spearheaded the project. The Ambassador noted the contribution of Filipino educators in Bangladesh, emphasizing that they bring not only technical expertise but also Filipino values, culture and heritage.

The Ambassador further expressed her hope that the exhibition would become the beginning of many more creative journeys and international collaborations between Bangladesh and the Philippines. Referring to her experience of living in Dhaka, she said she looked forward to seeing the landscapes, people and everyday life of Dhaka presented through the creative perspectives of the students in “BEYOND THE FRAME.”

In his remarks, Dr. Hasanul A. Hasan, Founder Member of AIUB and Member of the Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of embracing emerging academic disciplines and preparing students for new opportunities in the rapidly changing creative and technology-driven economy. He particularly stressed the value of studying new fields such as animation and game development, noting the expanding opportunities associated with these disciplines.

Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, Member of the Board of Trustees and Former Vice Chancellor of AIUB, highlighted the enormous potential of the animation industry and informed the audience about AIUB’s forthcoming initiative to establish a new academic department focused on animation. She emphasized that animation represents a major global market with significant employment opportunities for graduates possessing relevant technical and creative skills.

Welcoming the guests and participants, Ms. Rani Elen V. Ramos, Lecturer of the Animation Track, JMC, expressed her appreciation to the university authorities, faculty members, students and collaborators for supporting the exhibition and creating a platform where young animators could present their work and explore new forms of storytelling.

In his closing remarks, Professor Dr. Pradip Kumar Panday, Head of JMC, congratulated the students, faculty members and organizers for successfully bringing the exhibition to life. He emphasized that “BEYOND THE FRAME” reflects the department’s commitment to combining creativity, technology, storytelling and innovation in contemporary media education. He also expressed his appreciation to the Philippine Embassy and Ambassador Cainglet for supporting the initiative and contributing to stronger educational and creative ties between Bangladesh and the Philippines.

The exhibition reflects JMC’s growing emphasis on hands-on learning, emerging media technologies and interdisciplinary creative practice. Through the Animation Track, students are being encouraged to explore animation, augmented reality, virtual reality, digital storytelling and other innovative forms of communication while developing the skills needed for the rapidly expanding global creative economy.

“BEYOND THE FRAME: Stories in Augmented Reality” will remain open at the D Building Lobby, AIUB, from August 23 to 25, 2026, offering students, faculty members, staff, guests and visitors an opportunity to experience the creative possibilities of animation, AR and technology-driven storytelling.