Mizuho India Japan Study Centre celebrates 7th Foundation Day
Indo-Japan collaboration highlight of talks; milestone video showcases Centre's major initiatives and activities in the past year
25 September, 2024, Bengaluru: The Mizuho India Japan Study Centre (MIJSC), a Centre of Excellence at IIM Bangalore, celebrated its 7th Foundation Day on 20 September 2024 through an event that brought together experts from diverse fields for engaging sessions.
Prof. Jaideep Sarkar, Chairperson, Mizuho India Japan Study Centre and faculty of the Entrepreneurship area of IIMB, while delivering the welcome address, highlighted the need for greater sensitivity and understanding in business interactions with Japan.
Prof. Rishikesha T Krishnan, Director, IIM Bangalore, acknowledged the impact of many of the Centre’s initiatives including the Lean Manufacturing Practices (LMP) and Japanese Language courses as a valuable addition to management education, which, he added, reinforces the Centre's focus on practical, industry-relevant training.
The Guest of Honour, Koji Sato, Director General of the Japan Foundation, India, delivered an engaging address that underscored the deep cultural ties between India and Japan. He highlighted the historical friendship shaped by Buddhism, Shintoism and Hinduism, as well as the evolving bilateral ties post-World War II. He emphasized the complementarity of India and Japan in the economic and social development spheres where Japan’s Manufacturing strength and India’s growing market have the potential to benefit each other. Discussing the potential for collaboration, he said, "Japan has an aging population, while India faces youth unemployment – a perfect complementarity."
Dr. S. Vidyashankar, Vice Chancellor of Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi, addressed the gathering via video conferencing, providing valuable insights on reimagining engineering education in India. He stressed on the need for integrating multidisciplinary approaches in engineering curricula, advocating for the inclusion of design, business and social sciences to produce well-rounded engineers. “It is important for academic institutions to forge stronger partnerships with industries to ensure that educational programs align with current market needs and technological advancements.”
As part of the celebrations, a milestone video showcased the Centre's major initiatives and activities over the past year, emphasizing its commitment to fostering India-Japan relations.
The celebration concluded with a vibrant cultural program featuring performances by two Japanese musical groups. The 'Legacies Band' captivated the audience with popular anime songs from Demon Slayer. Following them, the 'Royal Echo Chorus' band members delighted everyone with their rendition of viral Indian songs.
The event concluded with Saideep Rathnam, Chief Operating Officer, Mizuho India Japan Study Centre, IIMB, delivering the vote of thanks. The event not only reinforced cultural connections between India and Japan, but also highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing contemporary challenges in education and industry.
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