The 3rd India-Japan Education Conclave, held on Saturday in Guwahati, Assam, brought together key figures from India and Japan with the aim of strengthening educational, cultural, and research ties between the two nations. The event, a major step in empowering Northeast India’s youth, provided students with an invaluable platform to connect with Japanese academic institutions and explore global opportunities.
Organized by the Indo-Japan Business Council in collaboration with the Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture and supported by the Embassy of Japan in India as part of the celebrated Japan Month, the conclave was inaugurated by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. He was joined by Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and Counsellor (Economy and Development) at the Embassy of Japan, Jiro Kodera.
Speaking at the inauguration, Rijiju highlighted the importance of India-Japan collaboration in education and culture. He emphasized that “the conclave is a testament to the growing bond between the two nations. By fostering educational collaboration and cultural exchange, we are not only strengthening our diplomatic ties but also providing our students with opportunities to explore global education and careers.” Rijiju added, “This initiative will shape the futures of countless young talents, especially in regions like Northeast India, where potential is immense.”
Rijiju also suggested that the Indo-Japan Business Council should conduct similar events across various universities in the Northeast to ensure the dissemination of information across the region.
The conclave, attended by over 1,600 students and educators, focused on promoting India-Japan academic cooperation and cultural exchange. Notably, more than 70 per cent of the attendees were from the Northeastern region, demonstrating the keen interest among local students in pursuing higher education, research, and career opportunities in Japan.
Representatives from top Japanese universities, language schools, and research institutions interacted with students, providing insights into study opportunities in Japan. Participants also engaged with various aspects of Japanese traditional arts, anime, and pop culture, fostering a deeper cultural understanding between the two nations.
Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, addressing the gathering, said, “It is a privilege for Assam to host such an event that brings Japanese institutions closer to the students of the state. By opening doors to higher education, research, and cultural exchange, we are empowering the youth of Northeast India to take part in global opportunities. This collaboration between India and Japan is a vital step forward for our region’s educational and cultural development.”
The event also highlighted the potential for further collaboration between Indian and Japanese universities through joint research, technology transfer, and student exchange programmes. Experts and educators from both countries discussed expanding these partnerships, which promise to provide long-term benefits for students from the region.
Jiro Kodera expressed his satisfaction with the turnout and enthusiasm shown by students and educators alike, noting that “the strong desire for deeper educational ties between Japan and India has laid the groundwork for future collaborations in the field of education and beyond.”
The India-Japan Education Conclave aligns with the Japan-India Vision 2025, a roadmap aimed at enhancing the special strategic and global partnership between the two nations. For the students of Northeast India, the conclave marks a significant opportunity to expand their horizons and engage in the global academic community. (With inputs from NE Now)