Fabliha Ahmed, an undergraduate student majoring in Global Studies and Governance at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), has become the first IUB student to participate in the prestigious Kobe College Japan Exchange Program. She began her one-semester study abroad journey on April 14, 2025, at Kobe College, a renowned liberal arts institution located in Hyōgo, Japan.
This academic exchange marks a significant milestone in the IUB-Kobe College partnership, the only such collaboration Kobe College maintains in South Asia. The initiative aims to promote international education, foster cultural understanding, and offer diverse academic exposure to students.
During her semester abroad, Fabliha will be enrolled in six interdisciplinary courses, including:
- Japanese Language
- Japanese Culture
- Asian Studies
- International Relations
- Gender Studies
She began preparing for this international exchange by independently learning Japanese through the IUB Library resources and later passed an online language placement test covering hiragana and katakana.
“Over the next six months, I will be living at the Kobe College dormitory in Hyogo. I’m excited to explore Japan’s vibrant culture, rich history, and make new friends,” said Fabliha.
Before her semester began, Fabliha attended the Kobe College semester orientation on April 3, where she had her first immersive experience with Japanese culture.
Groundbreaking MoU Between IUB and Kobe College
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between IUB and Kobe College was signed in February 2024, establishing a long-term collaboration focused on student exchange programs and joint academic research.
Earlier this year, from February 7-13, 2025, students and faculty from both institutions conducted a seven-day research project in Bangladesh’s Manikganj and Rajshahi districts, focusing on agricultural research. Fabliha actively contributed to this fieldwork as a student researcher and co-authored the final report.
“As Global Studies and Governance students, international exposure is essential. It enhances our understanding of global communication, foreign policy, and governance frameworks,” Fabliha said. “I’m incredibly grateful to both IUB and Kobe College for this life-changing opportunity.”
Embracing Cultural Exchange in Japan
With no prior knowledge of Japanese, Fabliha’s commitment to self-learning is a testament to her dedication. Now, she is also learning to ride a bicycle—an essential skill for getting around campus and the local area.
“In Japan, bicycles are a common and practical mode of transportation. Unlike in Bangladesh, I never had to learn how to ride one before. But it’s one of the first things I picked up here,” she shared.
Encouragement for Future Exchange Program Applicants
Fabliha strongly encourages other IUB students, especially women in the School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (SLASS), to take advantage of this study abroad opportunity.
“It’s an excellent chance to broaden your perspective on international relations and prepare for graduate or PhD studies. I highly recommend it to fellow students,” she said.
About Kobe College, Japan
Founded in 1875, Kobe College is a historic private liberal arts university in Nishinomiya, Hyōgo, and the first women’s college in Western Japan to receive university status. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in English, culture studies, music, psychology, and biosphere sciences.
How to Apply for the IUB-Kobe College Exchange Program
Applications for the IUB-Kobe College Student Exchange Program are open year-round. Female students from SLASS in their freshman, sophomore, or junior years are eligible to apply. For more information, interested students should contact the Office of Admission, Financial Aid, and International Relations at IUB or Bright Admission Coaching.
