Jan 24, 2025

NITC hosted a thought-provoking interactive session titled The Prospect of Cultural Exchange Between India and Japan

The National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC) hosted a thought-provoking interactive session titled "The Prospect of Cultural Exchange Between India and Japan" on Friday, 24th January 2025. The event, held at the prestigious Chanakya Hall, aimed to deepen the understanding and foster cultural collaboration between the two nations. The session brought together esteemed speakers, delegates, and students for an engaging dialogue on the significance of cultural exchange in today's interconnected world.

The program commenced at 4:00 PM with a warm welcome speech by Cdr. (Dr.) Shamasundara M. S., Registrar, followed by the Presidential Address by Prof. Priya Chandran, Director in-charge, NITC. Prof. M.K. Ravi Varma, Dean (IACR), further added to the event’s momentum with his felicitation speech.

The distinguished panel of speakers included:

Mr. Koji Sato: The Director General of The Japan Foundation spoke passionately about cultural diplomacy and the Foundation’s role in nurturing international partnerships. He highlighted the historic collaboration between India and Japan, pointing out cultural similarities that serve as the foundation for a long-term partnership. He also provided insights into how these collaborations can evolve in the future to address shared global challenges. 

Ms. Mariko Shinju: Renowned author and illustrator, Ms. Shinju, captivated the audience with her reflections on storytelling as a medium for wisdom, bridging cultures, and promoting environmental awareness. She discussed her globally acclaimed series Mottainai Grandma, which has been introduced to children across India, emphasizing how stories can inspire environmental consciousness and cross-cultural understanding.

Mr. Yoshiaki Koga: Editor, producer, and photographer at Kodansha Ltd., shared his extensive experience with India. He shed light on his initiatives, including the Comics for Empowering Women project and environmental education programs supported by the Mottainai Grandma series. Mr. Koga also expressed optimism about exploring further opportunities with Kodansha in India and encouraged collaborative storytelling as a tool for empowerment and sustainability.

The event highlighted the deep-rooted cultural connections between India and Japan, and how these ties can be strengthened through educational and creative exchanges. The speakers’ experiences showcased successful initiatives that have transcended borders, inspiring students and attendees to explore similar collaborations.

The interactive session was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. It served as a platform for meaningful discussions and the exchange of innovative ideas, furthering the goal of mutual understanding between India and Japan. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr.Baiju G Nair, followed by an interactive segment where students enthusiastically engaged with the speakers, discussing opportunities for collaborative cultural initiatives 

The National Institute of Technology Calicut takes pride in hosting such enriching events, paving the way for future collaborations and stronger international bonds.