IIT Hyderabad and JICA unite to nourish Design Innovation
JICA Chair Lecture Series concludes successfully
Highlights:
Sustained Collaboration: IITH and JICA fostered stronger ties, advancing design innovation together.
Inspiring Speakers: Renowned architects shared insights, fuelling creativity among 200 young design
enthusiasts.
Gateway to the Future: The event sets the stage for the JICA Lecture Series and “Ayaam” – Annual Fest of
the Department of Design, IIT Hyderabad.
Hyderabad, February 22, 2024 The collaboration between the Indian Institute of Technology
Hyderabad (IITH) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) reached new heights as the
JICA Chair Lecture Series concluded successfully. The event brought together 200 young design
enthusiasts, setting the stage for future collaborations and educational initiatives. The event was also
energized with the 2nd edition of “Ayaam” – Annual Fest of the Department of Design, IITH.
The JICA Chair Lecture Series featured distinguished speakers, each respected in their field, who
shared insights into the world of design and innovation. Dr Hidetoshi Ohno, Professor Emeritus of
the University of Tokyo and Principal at APL Design Workshop showcased his award-winning career,
including notable projects like the University of Tokyo's Institute of Physics and Mathematics and
the Sports & Cultural Complex at IITH. Dr Yozo Fujino, President of Josai University and Professor
Emeritus, highlighted his expertise in bridge dynamics, control, and monitoring, drawing on lessons
learned from 50 years of bridge research, including the iconic Akashi Kaikyō Bridge. Dr Yoshiyuki
Kawazoe, Associate Professor at the University of Tokyo, shared his architectural works and design
philosophy, emphasizing the importance of spaces like the "Hotel" and "General Library Annex at the
University of Tokyo" in fostering creativity and community gathering and the idea behind the Design
of Knowledge Centre at IITH.
Prof B S Murty, Director, IITH, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "The
second annual JICA Chair Lecture Series underscores the significance of the IITH-Japan relationship in
fostering innovation and knowledge exchange in the field of design for both the Nations. I hope that this
lecture series continues to build strong relation between IITH & JICA and also India and Japan."
Mr. Saito, Chief of JICA, India, also emphasized the importance of such collaborations, saying,
"JICA is proud to support initiatives that promote Japan – India knowledge-sharing and cultural
exchange. Our partnership with IITH is a testament to the strong bond between Japan and India in
nurturing design excellence."
The event, held at the Auditorium, Convention Centre, IITH, witnessed an enthusiastic audience. The
success of these engaging lectures and Ayaam has set a positive tone for future collaborations
between IITH and JICA, further enhancing the academic and cultural ties between the two Nations –
India and Japan.
