Japan Day at MUBS

By MUBS Communications Dept., 2000-2021.

 

In collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Lebanon, the Modern University for Business and Science (MUBS) organized “Japan Day at MUBS”.  The event introduced the civilization, culture and tradition of Japan to students and the local Beirut community.

Dr Hatem Alamy, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at MUBS, welcomed the attendees and emphasized the University’s aim to introduce its students to diverse cultures and to strengthen links with the Japanese embassy. “It is an honor to welcome the Embassy of Japan. We commend the Embassy for its initiatives in supporting the Lebanese community. As all know Japan is a country known for its initiatives to protect, preserve, and promote the wellbeing of the community.” MUBS is the founder of the National Wellness Network (NWN), an organization founded to empower individuals to adopt and maintain new healthy lifestyle behavior patterns by providing integrated and comprehensive services, such as physical therapy and traditional medical services.

 Yoshitake Naraoka, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Japan in Lebanon, emphasized the need for such events in order to build cross cultural relationships and nurture diversity. “I am proud to be here at MUBS for this wonderful collaboration. I hope that the Japan Day will be a good introduction to the students and I am looking forward to more.”

A screening of Yokoso Japan, a short film on Japan, opened the day’s program introducing the attendees to the beauty and traditions of Japan. It was followed by a concert by Ms. Nobuko Miyazaki on the Shinobue flute and Joe Awad on guitar which was received with enthusiastic applause by attendees. Next on the agenda was a MEXT Scholarship presentation by Gretta Noun, Senior Specialist, Public Relations and Cultural Affairs, Embassy of Japan in Lebanon. Her discussion introduced university education in Japan and explained the characteristics of Japanese universities as well as scholarship opportunities.

After the presentation attendees had the chance to tour the exhibition displaying the multiplicity of Japanese culture in terms of arts, traditions and customs. The Embassy of Japan presented a series of publications about the country. In various workshops the attendees were shown how to create the intricate Japanese paper art of origami and try their hand at shodo, Japanese calligraphy. A particular highlight was a fascinating display of Japanese folklore dolls and the chance for attendees to participate in Yukata (Japanese clothes) dressing, which proved to be very popular with the attending students.