First-ever Japanese language course begins at GAU

Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) has officially launched its first-ever three-month basic Japanese and Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) preparation programme, marking a significant step towards strengthening students' global communication skills, international employability and academic competitiveness. 

The inaugural ceremony, organised by the GAU Language and Personal Development Club (GAU-LPDC), was held on 16 July at the university's Old Auditorium. 

Vice-Chancellor Prof GKM Mustafizur Rahman inaugurated the event as the chief guest. 

The programme was chaired by Prof Mohammad Sharif Raihan, director of student welfare, while Treasurer Prof Md Safiul Islam Afrad attended as the special guest. Prof Md Amzad Hossain, the course instructor, also addressed the audience. Thirty-five students enrolled in the inaugural batch participated in the event. 

Welcoming the participants, Prof Raihan highlighted the importance of language learning in building global competence. 

Prof Amzad then introduced the course structure, teaching methodology, assessment process and the opportunities it offers in higher education, research, scholarships and careers in Japan. 

GAU-LPDC Vice-President Sazzatul Islam Shawon presented the club's achievements and outlined its vision for expanding foreign language education and personal development initiatives. 

Speaking on the occasion, Treasurer Prof Afrad emphasised that multilingual proficiency has become an essential asset for succeeding in today's interconnected world. 

Formally inaugurating the programme, VC Prof Mustafizur said that academic excellence alone is no longer sufficient in an increasingly globalised world. 

He noted that proficiency in international languages and intercultural communication would enable students to access new opportunities in research, technology, higher education, and global careers. 

He expressed confidence that the initiative would further strengthen GAU's international outlook while equipping its graduates to excel on the global stage. 

The programme concluded with a group photograph attended by the guests, faculty members, and students, celebrating the beginning of a new chapter in GAU's journey toward internationalisation.