The contributions of Professor Adedoyin Aguoru to the development of Japanese Studies in Africa have been described as exceptional, as academics, diplomats, and scholars gathered at the University of Ibadan for the official opening of the African Association for Japanese Studies (AAJS) conference.
The event, held at Trenchard Hall of UI, marks a significant milestone in the growth of Japanese Studies on the continent, celebrating years of progress and laying the groundwork for future academic and cultural partnerships between Africa and Japan. Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Ambassador Awolowo Dosumu, Professor Idowu Olayinka, a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, praised Professor Aguoru’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the promotion of academic and cultural ties between Africa and Japan.
As President of the African Association for Japanese Studies, Professor Aguoru has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication. Under her guidance, the AAJS has become a beacon of academic excellence and cross-cultural exchange,” Ambassador Dosumu noted.
She highlighted several key achievements under Aguoru’s leadership, including the consistent organisation of high-impact conferences, workshops, and seminars, which have provided valuable platforms for scholarly engagement. She also lauded the establishment of an academic journal that has become a crucial outlet for research in Japanese Studies within the continent.
“The creation of the AAJS Students Club reflects her deep commitment to empowering the next generation of scholars. Her work has not only brought pride to the University of Ibadan and Nigeria but to the entire African continent,” she added.
Dosumu congratulated Aguoru and expressed optimism for continued partnerships between African and Japanese institutions. Also present at the event was the Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, His Excellency Ambassador Suzuki Hideo, who was represented by Mr. Shin Honda from the Japanese Embassy.
In his remarks, Honda commended the AAJS for its rapid growth and meaningful impact in fostering interdisciplinary research and cultural understanding.“In just a few years, AAJS has emerged as a vital platform for strengthening ties between Japan and Africa,” Honda said, affirming the Embassy’s continued support for the association’s programmes and initiatives.
In his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Peter Olapegba, expressed appreciation to the AAJS and the Japanese Embassy for their collaborative efforts in promoting academic and cultural engagement.
Professor Adebowale noted that the conference theme was timely and relevant, addressing issues spanning the humanities, social sciences, economic partnerships, and youth development.
“We are confident that the conference will produce actionable insights for strengthening Africa-Japan relations,” he stated.
In her welcome address, Professor Aguoru expressed deep appreciation to the university leadership and the Japanese Embassy for their support. She reaffirmed AAJS’s mission to promote scholarly exchange, youth empowerment, and mutual understanding between Japan and Africa.
“This association stands as a testament to what can be achieved when academic vision meets international collaboration,” she said.
