The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, fspsp, has reiterated the institution’s dedication to building and fostering international partnerships.
He made this remark on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, during the opening ceremony of the 6th Annual International Conference on Japanese Studies in Africa, hosted by the African Association for Japanese Studies (AAJS).
Professor Olapegba asserted that, as the first and best university in Nigeria, the University of Ibadan has a long-standing history of academic excellence and takes pride in its achievements.
He stated that UI remains open to collaborations that advance knowledge and innovation, and lauded the efforts of the President of AAJS, Professor Adedoyin Aguoru, the Director of the university’s Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning for her remarkable achievements and contributions toward strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Japan.
The distinguished guest at the conference, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Nigeria, His Excellency Hideo Suzuki, who was represented by Mr. Shin Honda, the acting Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Japan, Abuja remarked that it was no coincidence that his very first engagement with the African Association for Japanese Studies (AAJS) was marked by genuine interest and mutual respect.
He explained that since its inception, the Embassy of Japan has followed the work of AAJS with growing admiration, disclosing that in a few short years, the Association has emerged as a leading platform for academic dialogue, cultural understanding, and interdisciplinary scholarship, linking Japan and Africa in fields such as education, innovation, technology, and youth development.
Professor Adedoyin Aguoru, in her welcome address at the Conference, described the theme of the conference: “Japan–Africa Relations: New Horizons and Challenges,” as timely and relevant.
She added that the sub-themes span a wide range of topics, from humanities and social sciences to economic partnerships and youth empowerment, to reflect the association’s multidisciplinary approach.
She disclosed that the AAJS Students Club would be instituted during the conference.
While extending gratitude to the Embassy of Japan for its unwavering diplomatic support and dedication to promoting Japan-Africa relations, which has been a driving force behind the Association’s growth and success, Professor Aguoru expressed appreciation to the University of Ibadan for its generosity and continuous support, which have enabled AAJS to thrive.
The Conference was marked by an Ambassadors’ Commendation Dinner, which witnessed a special remark delivered by the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu Olayink, FAS on behalf of Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu.
A keynote address titled “The Strategic Leap: Applying Japan’s AI Playbook to Nigerian Productivity” was also delivered by Dr Adedayo Omotunde before the Ambassador’s Commendation Award was presented to the AAJS President, Professor Adedoyin Aguoru.
The ceremony was attended by Professor Jide Owoeye, Chairman, Governing Council of Lead City University, Deans of Faculties in the University of Ibadan, Researchers and Students.
A courtesy visit had earlier been paid to the Vice-Chancellor as a prelude to the conference to introduce Mr Shin Honda. He was accompanied by Ms Mizukure Mayuko, Acting Head, Culture and Information Section and Mr Stanley Obiajunwa, Assistant, Culture and Information Section, both of the Embassy of Japan.
