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The second academic session of the JICA Chair Programme 2025/26 was held on 22^nd January 2026 at the Senate Hall. The session focused on the timely theme of “History of Disaster Preparedness and Responses in Japan” and was hence particularly significant in the context of the recent experiences in Sri Lanka. Emeritus Professor Kazuo Konagai of the University of Tokyo served as the distinguished resource person for the session. His insightful and engaging lecture offered valuable perspectives on Japan’s well-established disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, highlighting key lessons and best practices that may be adapted by Sri Lanka.
The session was held with the guidance and support of Professor , Vice Chancellor of the University and was honoured by the presence of Mr Noguchi Takuma, Senior Representative of the JICA Sri Lanka Office. The event also benefited from the presence and support of the JICA Sri Lanka Office Representatives, Ms Ito Yukiko and Ms Yoneda Hiroka, as well as Senior Specialist Mr Thiyagarajah Paramendiren, whose contributions led to the successful organisation of the programme.
The session was expertly moderated by Professor , Dean, Faculty of Technology, whose insights enriched the academic discussion. The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr , Director of the International Office, who expressed her sincere appreciation to all the contributors and participants.