The Animation Track of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC) at American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) inaugurated “Beyond the Frame: Stories in Augmented Reality,” a three-day exhibition showcasing the creative works of students from the Animation and Journalism Tracks.
The exhibition was inaugurated on August 23 at AIUB.
The exhibition features students’ creative works in augmented reality (AR), animation, digital art, and interactive storytelling, including AR experiences inspired by AIUB student organizations, as well as the landscapes, people, and stories of Dhaka.
Selected virtual reality (VR) and other technology-based demonstrations are also being showcased.
The opening ceremony was graced by Nina P Cainglet, Ambassador of the Philippines to Bangladesh, as guest of honor.
Among the distinguished guests present were Hasanul A Hasan, founder member, board of trustees; Dr Carmen Z Lamagna, member, board of trustees and former vice chancellor of AIUB; Prof Saiful Islam, vice chancellor of AIUB; Prof Tazul Islam, dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS).
Ambassador Nina P Cainglet highlighted the growing importance of the creative industries and the Philippines’ significant contribution to the global animation sector.
She noted that the Philippines has established itself as a trusted center for animation, particularly in digital and interactive media, and referred to the country’s Philippine Creative Industries Development Act as an important framework for nurturing and strengthening the creative sector.
The Ambassador further expressed her hope that the exhibition would mark the beginning of many more creative journeys and international collaborations between Bangladesh and the Philippines.
Hasanul A. Hasan, founder member of AIUB and member of the board of trustees, emphasized the importance of embracing emerging academic disciplines and preparing students for new opportunities in the rapidly changing, creative, and technology-driven economy.
Carmen Z Lamagna, member of the board of trustees and former vice chancellor of AIUB, highlighted the enormous potential of the animation industry and informed the audience about AIUB’s forthcoming initiative to establish a new academic department focused on animation.
Rani Elen V Ramos, lecturer, Animation Track, JMC, expressed her appreciation to the university authorities, faculty members, students, and collaborators for supporting the exhibition and creating a platform where young animators could present their work and explore new forms of storytelling.
In closing remarks, Prof Pradip Kumar Panday, head of JMC, congratulated the students, faculty members, and organizers for successfully bringing the exhibition to life.
The exhibition reflects JMC’s growing emphasis on hands-on learning, emerging media technologies, and interdisciplinary creative practice.
Through the Animation Track, students are encouraged to explore animation, augmented reality, virtual reality, digital storytelling, and other innovative forms of communication while developing the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly expanding global creative economy.
Associate Dean Faria Sultana; Prof Pradip Kumar Panday, head, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication; Prof Manzur H Khan, proctor; faculty members from JMC and other departments; administrative officials; advisers; guests; media representatives; and students were also present at the event.