Khulna University has been officially recognized as an authorized test center for the Japanese language NAT-Test, marking a major milestone in the internationalization of higher education in Bangladesh. The university is now the first institution outside Dhaka to host the internationally recognized Japanese language proficiency examination.
The Japanese language NAT test is widely accepted as a standard assessment of Japanese language skills and plays an important role in facilitating higher education, scholarships, training, skill development, and employment opportunities in Japan.
With Japan’s growing demand for skilled human resources, an increasing number of Bangladeshi students, trainees, and job seekers are seeking academic and professional opportunities there. Until now, candidates from across the country had to travel to Dhaka to sit for the examination, resulting in additional time, expense, and inconvenience. The establishment of the NAT test center at Khulna University is expected to make the examination more accessible, particularly for students and job seekers from the southwestern region of the country.
University officials said the initiative aligns with Bangladesh’s long-term goals of expanding international higher education, developing globally skilled human resources, and increasing overseas employment opportunities. The development is also expected to strengthen the university’s international engagement and global visibility.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Rezaul Karim described the recognition as a significant achievement for the institution and the country’s higher education sector.
“Khulna University is committed not only to excellence in education and research, but also to strengthening international connectivity and global engagement,” he said. “Becoming the first NAT test site outside Dhaka is an important milestone in higher education, skill development, and international employment in Bangladesh. This initiative will open new opportunities for young people interested in higher education and employment in Japan.”
The university’s Office of International Affairs had been coordinating for a long time with Satoshi Kamata, President and Director of Senmon Kyouiku Publishing, the organization responsible for conducting the NAT-Test. As part of the ongoing collaboration, Kamata visited Khulna University on April 13 and held detailed discussions with university authorities regarding the establishment of a NAT test center on campus. Following successful discussions and mutual agreement, the university was formally approved as an official NAT testing site.
Director of the Office of International Affairs, Professor Dr Md Ashiq Ur Rahman, said the university has long been working to establish itself as a platform for international higher education and global connectivity.