Mody University of Science and Technology
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Department of Foreign Language
Report on JICA Team Visit I and Japanese Language Student Interaction Session
Introduction
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) team, comprising Mr. Joyanta Rabha and Ms. Isogai Mayumi (Volunteer Programme Coordinator), visited Mody University on July 31, 2024, as part of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) program. The primary objective of the visit was to assess the current state of the Japanese language program at the university and explore potential areas of collaboration for future JICA-JOCV programs.
Meeting with University Higher Authorities
The JICA team arrived at the campus main gate at 11:00 AM and was warmly welcomed by Dr. Ashok Singh Rathore. Following the welcome, the JICA team had a meeting with the university’s higher authorities, including Prof. (Dr.) Anil Saroliya, Dean-Academics, Prof. (Dr.) Jitendra Binwal, Dean-SLAS, and the Head of the Department of Foreign Languages and All Foreign Language Faculties. The meeting took place in the Dean SLAS Office and Dean Academics. Dr. Vinay Kumar Singh, Head, Department of Foreign Languages, all faculty members were also present during the meeting.
Agenda:
To assess the current situation of Mody University’s Japanese language program
Courtesy call by Ms. Isogai Mayumi (Volunteer Programme Coordinator)
To observe the MU campus for potential future applications for the JICA-JOCV program
Meeting Highlights:
Prof. (Dr.) Jitendra Binwal, Dean-SLAS, Dr. Vinay Kumar Singh, Head of the Department of Foreign Languages, and all faculty members expressed their sincere appreciation for the contributions of the previous JOCV volunteer, Ms. Akina. Her presence for the past two years significantly motivated students’ interest in learning Japanese language and culture. The positive impact was evident in the students’ participation in various workshops organized by Ms. Akina, including calligraphy and singing workshops. The JICA team reciprocated the positive feedback, commending the dedication of the university faculty and the collaborative spirit of partnering University. The JICA team provided an overview of the JOCV program application process. The representatives from Mody University informed the JICA team that approval from the university’s higher authorities is pending for continuing the application for the JOCV program. Prof. (Dr.) SS Sarolia, Dean-Academics, shown his keen interest in other JICA Projects and looking forward for the future collaborations. The discussion concluded with a mutual expression of gratitude for the success of the previous program.
Student Interaction Session
The JICA team conducted an interactive session with Japanese language students in Room No. 202 and the Japanese Faculty cabin. During this session, the team gathered feedback from students regarding the impact of the previous JOCV volunteer, Ms. Akina, and the positive changes observed due to her presence. Students shared their aspirations and expectations for future JOCV volunteers. The JICA team also conducted a question-and-answer session, motivating students about the prospects of learning Japanese and its potential career opportunities. The session concluded with a group photograph.
Campus, Accommodation, and Workplace Visit
After the student interaction, the JICA team was taken on a tour of the campus, including a visit to Bhrigu Villa (Cottage) and an AC cabin. The purpose of this visit was to familiarize the team with the campus facilities and to further assess the university’s suitability for future JOCV placements. A Japanese faculty member accompanied the team during this tour.
Lunch & Departure
The JICA team had lunch at the university dining hall from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. They were accompanied by the Prof. (Dr.) Anil Saroliya, Dean-Academics, and faculty members from the Department of Foreign Languages. The JICA team departed from the campus main gate at 2:30 PM. A Japanese faculty member accompanied them until their departure. The visit by the JICA team was a fruitful and productive one. The interaction with students, faculty, and administrators provided valuable insights into the Japanese language program and the university’s overall environment. The team’s observations will be instrumental in determining the feasibility of future JICA-JOCV collaborations.
Prof. (Dr.) Jitendra Binwal
Dean-SLAS
Date: 01-08-2024
