Seminar to Introduce Japanese at Schools

Technology has removed language barriers. However, to exchange ideas in the local language of Japan and acquire skills from them even outside of internet connectivity, a seminar was held at the Dept. of Japanese Language and Culture, Institute of Modern Languages, University of Dhaka. To make the training activities lively, this training program is running in smart classrooms. In times of disaster, there is an opportunity to participate in virtual classes from home. The outcome of this seminar is expected to disseminate to all concerned stakeholders and JALTAB will take further steps to expedite the process of introducing Japanese language at High School level in Bangladesh.

On July 17, Friday, the seminar entitled “Introducing Japanese Language at School Level in Bangladesh” was organized by the Japanese Language Teachers’ Association of Bangladesh (JALTAB).

Prof. Dr. Mohammed Ansarul Alam, President of JALTAB was the Keynote Speaker; and retired Senior Expert of the Japan Foundation Mr. Kei Shirai joined from Japan on zoom was the discussant. Appreciating government policy of introducing several languages at high school level, Prof. Dr. Alam emphasized to introduce Japanese language at first phase without failure. He added, "There are a very strong and high-level needs of Japanese language skill among the Bangladeshi youths." Prof. Alam also mentioned that the Japan Foundation and JALTAB are ready to provide all kind of supports including conducting training, developing teaching materials and carry out necessary survey and research. JF expert Mr. Shirai appreciated both Bangladesh government and JALTAB’s effort. He also suggested to consider other South Asia and Southeast Asian countries example.

Among the others JF expert Mr. Tomoyuki Fukui, JALTAB General Secretary Mr. Kuniaki Okabayashi were present; while Mr. Ahmedul Azam, Teaching Fellow, Center for Academic Practice and Resources, Hiroshima University, and Mr. Tarek Rahman, a PhD student of Graduate School of Education, Aichi University of Education, Japan joined online. From their experiences, both Mr. Azam and Mr. Tarek supported the initiative of introducing Japanese at school level.

Ms. Fazilatun Nesa Shieuly, Teacher of Jahangirnagar University and JUAAB pointed that the job security and salary of language teachers must be ensured. At the end of the seminar, Mr. Okabayashi proposed that a team from JALTAB may negotiate with all concerned authorities.
//DBTech/coresspondent/EDP//