The Islamic University of Gaza recently welcomed esteemed Japanese peacebuilding expert, Professor Hideaki Shinoda, to their campus. Professor Shinoda, who serves as the Director of the Peacebuilding Center in Hiroshima and is a Professor at the Graduate School of Global Studies at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, met with the university’s President, Prof. Nasser Farhat, as well as with Dr. Sami Shaath, the Deputy Dean of External Relations Affairs, and Dr. Mosheer Amer, the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Arts.
During the visit, Prof. Farhat emphasized the university’s dedication to promoting scientific, cultural, and civilizational advancement, as well as their commitment to staying up-to-date with modern trends in higher education and technological development. Professor Shinoda expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome he received from the university’s staff and students, noting that he was impressed by the university’s numerous activities, its history, and its achievements, which speak to its distinguished status.
As part of the visit, Professor Shinoda delivered a lecture to students at the university’s main conference hall, focusing on the process of reconstruction and peacebuilding in Japan, using Hiroshima as a model. Dr. Musheer Amer simultaneously translated the lecture, emphasizing the significance of this scientific lecture on Japan’s experience in reconstruction and peacebuilding following the use of weapons of mass destruction in World War II.
The lecture covered critical stages in Japanese history and the challenges the country faced, including the threat of external colonization and internal division. Professor Shinoda discussed how these problems were resolved to build a modern state capable of overcoming these challenges, highlighting the role of political and social leaders in providing a conscious vision, sound leadership, and plans to uplift their communities and overcome obstacles.
Additionally, Ms. Walaa Safi, Coordinator of International Exchange Projects at the University, gave a presentation on the university’s most notable achievements and contributions, academic centers and programs, and their participation in international projects resulting in partnerships with over 150 international, regional, and local universities. The presentation confirmed the university’s interest in opening up more avenues of cooperation with Japanese universities.
As part of the visit, Professor Shinoda also toured the university museum to learn about its significant achievements and contributions in the academic and research fields, receiving awards in various fields.
The Islamic University of Gaza’s reception of Professor Shinoda and his lecture on Japanese history and peace-building highlights the institution’s commitment to promoting scientific, cultural, and civilizational advancement through global exchange and collaboration. The visit served as an excellent opportunity for students, academics, and visitors to learn about Japan’s experience in overcoming challenges and obstacles to build a modern state, providing a model for other countries to follow.
