News

On Friday, November 10, 2023, Waseda University hosted a special lecture by Ms. Ana Maria Ibañez, Vice President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

The IDB is a regional multilateral development bank which was established in 1959 with the aim of contributing to the economic and social development of member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Since the conclusion of the partnership agreement in 2018, the University and the IDB have continued to deepen the partnership, especially through increased student placements in internships at the IDB.

The event was attended by about 120 people from inside and outside the University, including students interested in social development in the Latin America and Caribbean region and international organizations.

Ms. Ana Maria Ibañez, Vice President of IDB

The lecture centered around the theme of “Latin America and The Caribbean’s Key Challenges,” and included case studies of the challenges facing Latin America and the Caribbean today, as well as analyses on subjects such as poverty and other widening disparities, the relationship between carbon neutral policies and public funds, challenges facing aging societies, natural disasters and their impact on the region, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on society.

These issues are common not only to Latin America and the Caribbean, but also to Japan and other countries and regions, and the participating students listened intently while taking notes. She also mentioned how the IDB faces, supports, and leads the way in solving such issues. This was a valuable opportunity for students, especially those who are interested in a career in international organizations.

Lecture by vice president

During the Q&A session following the lecture, many questions were asked by students of various nationalities and backgrounds. The Vice President, who is also a former professor, not only answered questions about various local issues and the role the IDB should play in society, but also gave specific advice and words of encouragement to the younger generation.

Q&A session

Through this valuable exchange with the Vice President, the students who attended the lecture not only learned more about the social challenges and opportunities facing the Latin America and Caribbean region, but also gained significant insights and hints on becoming a global leader who will contribute to the world.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Inter-American Development Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank Asia Office for their efforts in making this lecture possible.