By AIT Public Affairs
25 August 2023: The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) participated in the “ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) Scholars’ Conference” organized from August 24th to 25th, 2023, in a hybrid mode by CCSD’s Partner Funds Division (CCPF).
The ADB-JSP scholarships are granted to designated institutions (DIs) across the Asia-Pacific region for studies in economics, business and management, science and technology, and other development-related fields. AIT’s ADB-JSP is among the most successful scholarship programs, offering educational opportunities to students from various countries since its inception in 1988.
The conference, which is a part of the Japan Fund’s team strategic and enhanced knowledge products and services, aimed to:
- Inspire and convey ADB, the Government of Japan, and the partner universities’ fervent hope and compelling message, especially to the graduating scholars, to pay forward and contribute to their home country’s socio-economic development.
- Continuously strengthen the program’s scholars and alumni network and instill a sense of identity and pride as program ambassadors to their home country.
- ewCreate a higher level of visibility in Japan, closer to the financing partner of the program.
Prof. Abdul Salam, Dean of AIT’s School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD), conveyed profound gratitude on behalf of the 25 Partner Universities to the Government of Japan, its citizens, and the ADB for their unwavering support and generous funding. He congratulated the scholarship recipients for embarking on the journey of socio-economic development and commended their dedication and commitment to instigating positive change.
Prof. Salam emphasized the transformative influence that these scholars wield in shaping societies, uplifting communities, and paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come. He noted that the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives they bring enrich the academic landscape of partner universities, fostering global understanding and cooperation.
“The ADB-JSP has empowered numerous talented individuals through exceptional education and invaluable networking, equipping them to address complex challenges and drive sustainable development. Proficiency, combined with qualities such as empathy, humility, and collaboration, is essential for tackling global issues,” Prof. Salam added. The scholars were encouraged to be advocates of positive change, champions of inclusivity, and inspiring leaders who share knowledge, mentor others, and collaborate for a fairer world.
Attendees in Tokyo included graduates from the academic year 2023, esteemed professors, and dedicated coordinators representing the 15 partner universities in Japan. Additionally, senior officials from the Japan Ministry of Finance, the ADB Executive Director for Japan, ADB management, ADBI and ADB staff were present. Participants from partner universities beyond Japan, including AIT, and guests joined the event virtually via Zoom. Prof. Mukund S. Babel of the Water Engineering and Management Department of AIT’s School of Environment and Technology (SET) and Prof. Anil Kumar Anal of the Department of Food, Agriculture, and Bioresources of SERD also participated in different discussions.
Tania Afrin Tonny, an alumna of the Gender and Development Studies Program (GDS) within the Department of Development and Sustainability at AIT’s SERD, was honored with the prestigious ADB-JSP Thesis of the Year Award in 2023. Her thesis is titled ‘International Labor Migration amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Vulnerabilities of Returning Bangladeshi Migrant Women Workers from the Middle East Countries’.The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the global supply chain, causing disruptions and affecting both social and economic aspects. Many migrant workers, particularly those from poorer countries like Bangladesh, were forced to return home. This study focuses on the vulnerabilities experienced by returning Bangladeshi migrant women workers during the pandemic. Tania’s exceptional achievement earned her the third place in the “Cluster Award for Human Development” category.
