IRISE provided materials for a photo exhibition by Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature
A photo exhibition of Soka University's bronze statues opened on September 20th at Alisher Navoi Tashkent State University of Uzbek Language and Literature in Uzbekistan.
This exhibition was held based on materials provided by IRISE, following a request from Uzbekistan’s former Minister of Culture and Sports, Mr. Tursunali Kuziyev, who wished to convey the student-centered spirit of Soka University founder, Mr. Daisaku Ikeda, to the local community. The exhibition featured photographs of the Bronze statues at Soka University, including the statue of the great poet of Central Asia, Alisher Navoi, gifted by Uzbekistan in 2004.
The opening ceremony featured greetings from the University President and the former Minister of Culture and Sports, followed by a video message from Soka University President Suzuki. Furthermore, the grand opening ceremony was met with great applause, as students from the university performed Navoi's poetry and Uzbek folk dances, and also recited Japanese poetry.
A large statue of Navoi stands at the university's entrance. Nearby, a cherry tree was planted on the same day, symbolizing Mr. Ikeda's contributions to education and culture, as well as his efforts to promote Navoi's philosophy during his lifetime.
The following lines are inscribed on the base of the statue of Alisher Navoi in the area outside Ikeda Auditorium.
"Know this, all humankind:
The greatest curse is enmity;
the greatest blessing, amity."
