People's Exchanges
October 3, 2002
The 100th Anniversary of Nepali Students in Japan
Commemorative Ceremony of the 100th Anniversary of Nepali Students in Japan and Demonstration of Tea Ceremony
The commemorative ceremony of the 100th anniversary of the first Nepali students in Japan jointly organized by the Embassy of Japan and Japan University Students' Association, Nepal (JUSAN) was held at the Ambassador's residence on September 27, 2002. Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba was the chief guest of the ceremony. In the ceremony, the book entitled "Pioneer Nepali Students in Japan - A Century ago" written by Mr. Harendra B. Barua was formally released by the Prime Minister.
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On the occasion, Ambassador Kaminaga expressed his pleasure in holding the ceremony to commemorate the 100th anniversary with the demonstration of "Chanoyu" (Tea Ceremony) that represents true tradition of Japan. "It is a matter of great pride for us to learn that the Government of Nepal had chosen my country as the first destination of students abroad for higher education", he said and remarked that leaders of Nepal and Japan had the vision of sharing the common values of Asia which are evident
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in their aesthetic qualities, ideology and their attitude of compassion, making it possible to send and receive those students. The remarkable decision of the leaders at that time, and the combination of the pioneer students' role and activities, were an excellent reflection of the time and of shared Asian values. "Japan has been assisting Nepal in human resources development and production of skilled manpower since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries," said Ambassador Kaminaga. He also stated that more than 60 percent of the Japan-returned Nepali students are involved in the teaching profession and producing skilled human resources for the nation.
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Expressing his sincere thanks to Ambassador Kaminaga for organizing such a momentous event, Prime Minister Deuba said Japan and Nepal enjoy very good relations at not only the government but also the people's level, and the relations are highlighted by the warmth of friendship, cordiality, understanding and co-operation. He also remarked, "Many Nepalese have studied in Japan, acquired knowledge and applied what they have learnt in Nepal.
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Human resources development is one of the most important aspects of Japanese cooperation in
Nepal which has played a very important role in the socio-economic development of the country."
Dr. Gajendra Baniya, President of JUSAN also shed light on various aspects of Japan-Nepal relations and remarked that the commemorative ceremony itself would be a landmark in the history of both the countries for the next century to come. He said he felt proud that JUSAN was the most active alumni association in Southwest Asia, while attending the first reunion of former students in Japan held in Tokyo last year.
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During the demonstration of "Chanoyu" (Tea Ceremony), Mr. Jochi Yabunouchi, 13th Grand Master of the Yabunouchi School that was established 400 years ago, explained the history, essence and spirit of the Tea Ceremony, as well as proceedings of the ceremony, and his son junior Grand Master Mr. Joyu Yabunouchi demonstrated the proceedings. After the demonstration, every guest experienced traditional Japanese culture of drinking green tea, which was served by the Grand Master and members of his delegation.
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 Grand Master Jochi Yabunouchi presenting the explanation of Tea Ceremony and his son junior grand master Joyu Yabunouchi demonstrating the proceedings. |
 Guests viewing photo panels at the exhibition
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On September 28, the demonstration of Tea Ceremony and photo exhibition to commemorate the 100th anniversary were also held at the Soaltee Crowne Plaza Hotel. The photo panels displayed at the venue were mainly focused on the life and study of the eight Nepali students in Japan, a century ago.
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