UNAM Receives Second Book Donation Through Japan’s Read Japan Project

UNAM Receives Second Book Donation Through Japan’s Read Japan Project. The University of Namibia (UNAM) Library has once again been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Read Japan Project, a cultural and academic initiative by The Nippon Foundation facilitated through the Embassy of Japan in Namibia.

An official handover ceremony marked the donation of 131 English-language books, reinforcing Japan and Namibia’s continued academic partnership. The books, collectively valued at 3.3 million Japanese Yen (approximately N$40,999), cover diverse subjects such as foreign relations, business, culture, literature, and history.

Speaking at the event, Prof Frednard Gideon, UNAM’s Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, emphasized the significance of the donation. “Libraries are essential to human development. This partnership reflects mutual respect and shared educational goals,” he said.

His Excellency Mr. Shinichi Asazuma, Ambassador of Japan to Namibia, noted the deliberate curation of the books and expressed his hope that the materials would strengthen bilateral ties and support UNAM’s educational mission. “This is more than a donation—it is a symbol of our growing cooperation in culture and education,” he remarked.

UNAM previously benefited from the Read Japan Project in 2017, making it one of the few African universities to receive the donation twice. The partnership has also extended to research collaborations with Japanese universities like Kobe, Hokkaido, and Tohoku, alongside ongoing support from JICA, which has helped train over 15 Namibian PhD holders in Japan.

UNAM Vice Chancellor Prof Kenneth Matengu praised the expanding relationship and Japan’s role in supporting Namibia’s research and academic development. Dr. Joseph Ndinoshiho, University Librarian, reiterated the value of the donation in fostering knowledge and understanding among students.