A lecture took place with Professor Dr. Ali Abdul Amir Sajet, Dean of the College of Arts at the University of Baghdad, in attendance alongside his esteemed colleagues. The event was organised as part of the memorandum of understanding between JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) and the University of Baghdad
Professor Dr. Kurihira, from Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science, delivered the JICA Chair Lecture, titled “The Power of Museum Influence”. The event was attended by department heads, professors, and postgraduate students from the Departments of Archaeology and History. The lecture aimed to explore the role, significance, and management of museums, concluding that museums serve as more than displays of artefacts; they act as conduits of historical knowledge. Additionally, the lecture highlighted the pivotal role of artificial intelligence in advancing museum work. Professor Kurihira emphasised the value of museums and their potential to attract investment, describing them as “the cultural and civilisational face of nations
The lecture’s recommendations included the need to promote museum studies as an academic discipline at universities worldwide. Professor Dr. Kurihira stressed that museum managers, often referred to as ‘curators,’ require thorough training and knowledge. He noted that over 900 Japanese universities currently offer specialised programmes to prepare individuals for roles in museum management and operations. Professor Kurihira extended his gratitude to the University President, the College of Arts’ Deanship, and all attendees for their active participation, demonstrated by their questions and contributions to the discussion
The event concluded with the presentation of honorary certificates by the Deanship of the College of Arts. Certificates were awarded to the visiting delegation by Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Abdulwahid Mahmoud Al-Qaysi and Assistant Professor Dr. Laith Majeed Hussein
