Ahmed Thamer brings Japanese culture and language to Mosul

NINEVEH – Japanese culture and language are gaining popularity in Mosul, thanks in part to the efforts of Ahmed Thamer, a physical education student at Mosul University, who has become the city’s first Japanese language instructor.

Thamer’s journey began in 2018, fueled by his fascination with Japanese culture. By 2019, he was studying Japanese intensively, even during the Covid-19 pandemic, logging up to nine hours of daily study.

His efforts earned him multiple certifications from online courses he was participating. He later connected with Japan’s Ambassador to Iraq, Futoshi Matsumoto, deepening his ties to Japanese institutions and expanding his role as a translator of scientific material, particularly in sports education.

“I am currently writing a book on physical education in Japanese schools, exploring their unique teaching methods and sports lessons, which could improve our own teaching approaches,” Thamer told 964media.

Despite not yet visiting Japan, he has achieved an advanced language level and teaches weekly sessions focusing on both language and culture, including Japanese calligraphy.

“I established the Japan Club last June and have been teaching students for free through social media platforms. The number of students has reached 221, with lessons divided into 26 sessions. We have now reached the lesson number 16,” he elaborated.

Ambassador Matsumoto’s role in strengthening Iraqi-Japanese relations has been significant, as Thamer noted. The cost of airfare between the two nations has dropped by 40% from $3000 to $1700, and visa access has improved, with the Japanese embassy in Baghdad welcoming visitors regularly.

“Japanese culture is deeply intertwined with its language,” Thamer said. “Many adults, even from countries like Morocco, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, have shown great interest in learning it, whether out of passion or for professional opportunities.”