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 artifacts that promote Japanese language, arts, and education.

The collection includes 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, Honorable 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 Prof. Dr. Saiful Islam, Vice Chancellor; Prof. Dr. Md. Abdur Rahman, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Dr. Nisar Ahmed, Treasurer; Prof. Dr. Manzur H Khan, Proctor; Group Captain (Retd) Dr. Mohammad Zahidul Islam Khan, Registrar; Mr. Khurshed Alam, Controller of Examinations; and the respected deans of various faculties. From the Embassy of Japan, Mr. Yamamoto Kyohei, Second Secretary and Deputy Head of the Public Relations & Culture Section, accompanied the Ambassador.

A pleasant coincidence was the Honorable Ambassador’s visit to the on-going Culinary Fair of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management between Annex 4 and 5, where he witnessed and enjoyed interacting with enthusiastic students who were present at the fair.

This initiative reflects AIUB’s strong commitment to international partnerships and intercultural learning, providing students and scholars with a valuable platform to engage with Japanese culture and explore academic and cultural opportunities.

Designed as a vibrant and interactive space, the Japan Corner will serve as a hub for students and researchers interested in Japanese language, heritage, and higher education — ultimately strengthening people-to-people ties between Japan and Bangladesh.

In his speech, Ambassador SAIDA Shinichi emphasized the significance of mutual understanding and youth engagement in advancing bilateral relations. The AIUB administration extended its deep appreciation to The Nippon Foundation, Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, and the Embassy of Japan for their generous support and continued collaboration.

The inauguration concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a guided tour of the Japan Corner, library, and campus. The program was successfully coordinated by Dr. B. M. Sajjad Hossain, Associate Professor, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, AIUB.