On Monday, June 16, 2025, we had the honor of hosting Professor Ananda Kumara, President of Lanka Nippon BizTech Institute (LNBTI)—Sri Lanka’s first Japanese-affiliated IT university—for a special Intensive English Program (IEP) lecture. Professor Kumara, the founding dean and honorary professor of the Faculty of Foreign Studies at Meijo University, has played a pivotal role in establishing globally oriented language and culture education models. Having resided in Japan for 41 years, Professor Kumara also serves as the President of the Japan Association for Global Competency Education (JAGCE) and was awarded the Foreign Minister’s Commendation in 2023 for his contributions to global human resource development education.

Thanks to the connection with Professor UESUGI Yuko, a member and the chair of the Chugoku-Shikoku Branch of JAGCE, we were able to realize this esteemed lecture. Seizing the opportunity of his visit to Japan, Professor Kumara graciously proposed delivering a lecture at Eikei University of Hiroshima.

The lecture, titled ” Embracing Globalization: Issues on Empowering Youth and Energizing Japan,” began with Professor Kumara posing questions to the students about what constitutes a global talent and the skills required to become one. The students engaged in discussions, exploring their own answers.

Reflecting on the current state of Japan amid advancing globalization, Professor Kumara shared his extensive insights on how young people can enhance their skills and positively impact society. He emphasized that embracing globalization with an open mind and broad perspective is key to Japan’s sustainable development and the growth of the next generation.

The interactive and enlightening lecture provided intellectual stimulation to the students. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Professor Kumara for his invaluable presentation.

As part of the IEP’s commitment to broadening students’ perspectives, a special lecture is held once per quarter, inviting experts from outside the university to speak on a wide range of topics.