Japan at Beirut Arab University

The students at Beirut Arab University experienced a Japanese Day, during which they were introduced to the Japanese culture, history and traditions. Students learnt about the cultural and historical features of Japan, tasting some of the most important Japanese dishes. The event was held at Debbieh Campus on the 3rd of March 2016, and was attended by the Japanese Ambassador to Beirut, Seiichi Otsuka, the cultural Attache at the Embassy Ms. Saori Mizuno, Embassy Staff, President of BAU Prof. Amr Galal El Adawi, Secretary General Dr. Omar Houri, Vice President for Medical Affairs Prof. Essam Osman, Deans of BAU Faculties, Directors, Academic and Non Academic Staff, in addition to students.
After the Lebanese and the Japanese Anthems, Dr. Walid Malaeb, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Science, opened the event welcoming the audience in the three Languages, Arabic, English and Japanese.
He emphasized in his welcoming note the importance of organizing such events that introduce the students to the Far East Culture and paving the way to mingle and get to know other different cultures.
After that, the Ambassador of Japan to Lebanon Mr. Otsuka hailed the activities of the Day, as forms of cultural exchange. He also expressed his hope that the Day may be developed into scientific cooperation between Japan and BAU, in particular through the scholarships offered by the Embassy to BAU postgraduate students to pursue their studies in Japan.
President of BAU, Prof. Dr. Amr Galal El Adawi welcomed the guests, pointing out that this was the second time for the Day to be held. He emphasized that such events help enhance students’ knowledge and open their horizons to other cultures, which – together with their respective educational programs – enhances their openness to the world.

The event included Martial Arts Show presented by “kokushokurein” Group ISKF-Lebanon, it also included an Introduction to Noh (Japanese Traditional Theater) by Mr. Umewaka  musical performances, and ended by the presentation of the Japanese Scholarship (MEXT) which was presented by the Cultural Attache of the Embassy Ms. Saori Mizuno, and the Public Relations Coordinator at the Embassy Ms. Gretta Noun.
After that, the students participated in Origami (The Japanese art of Folding papers into different shapes, and the Kurumie (The Japanese art of 3D Paintings) workshops that was running during the day. In addition to that they were introduced to the Japanese tradition in presenting the tea through a “Tea Ceremony” and experienced their names  written in the Japanese calligraphy, in addition to a short film screening and talks that highlighted the cultural and historical depth of Japan. An exhibition displayed the aesthetics of Japanese calligraphy and paintings, while students dressed up in Japanese kimonos (Traditional Dress).