Today, the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore experienced a significant and memorable event as we had the distinct honor of hosting Japanese Ambassador H.E. Mr. Wada Mitsuhiro. The occasion was the Oath Taking Ceremony for the new MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan (MAAP) Lahore Executive Committee, an event that underscores the deepening relationship between Pakistan and Japan in the field of education and research.
Our esteemed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Nasir Hayat, warmly welcomed Ambassador Mitsuhiro, setting the tone for a day filled with promising discussions and initiatives. The formal ceremony saw the newly elected members of the MAAP Lahore Executive Committee taking their oaths of office. We congratulate Prof. Dr. Khalid Farooq, the Regional Chair, Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Awais Rashid, the Vice Regional Chair, Dr. Ali Murtaza Rasool, the Regional Secretary Coordination, Dr. Ali Ahmed, the Regional Treasurer, and Dr. Muhammad Irfan, the Regional Secretary Information, on their new roles.
Following the oath-taking ceremony, an in-depth discussion focused on enhancing academic and research collaborations between Pakistani universities and their Japanese counterparts. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Nasir Hayat emphasized the importance of increasing the number of scholarships that Japan offers to Pakistani students, highlighting how these opportunities are crucial for fostering educational exchange and developing global competencies.
Prof. Dr. Khalid Farooq proposed the establishment of state of the art engineering research center at UET Lahore in collaboration with leading Japanese universities. This initiative aims to foster advanced research and innovation, leveraging the combined expertise and resources of both nations. Additionally, Dr. Farooq introduced the idea of creating a Pak-Japan Friendship Garden at UET Lahore, symbolizing the enduring friendship and growing cultural ties between our two countries.
To mark the beginning of this significant project, Ambassador Mitsuhiro planted a tree, representing the first step towards the development of the Friendship Garden. This garden will not only beautify our campus but also serve as a lasting symbol of the collaboration and friendship between Pakistan and Japan.
The visit of Ambassador Mitsuhiro and the discussions held today signify a promising step towards strengthening cultural, academic, and research collaborations between Pakistan and Japan. We are excited about the potential for lasting friendships and the fostering of higher education between our nations.
