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Healing with water

2019.09.02
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“Thirst and hunger are not cured with medicine. They require water.”

As he spoke this message, Dr. Tetsu Nakamura knew better than anyone else in the room the truth behind these words. 

Having arrived in Afghanistan in 1984 with the goal of providing medical aid to some of the many doctorless villages throughout the country, Nakamura found himself making a different kind of impact as he began working to improve irrigation conditions in rural areas of the country from 2003. 

On August 5 at Shiiki Hall, Nakamura shared these experiences at a special lecture, titled “Afghan Green Earth Project,” organized by Kyushu University’s Institute for Advanced Study, where he is also a University Professor. 

It was during a particularly severe drought in 2000 that Nakamura, a graduate of Kyushu University’s School of Medicine, came to the realization that would profoundly broaden the scope of his work.

 “More than one hundred clinics, these people needed one irrigation canal,” he said.

There is many doctorless village in Afganistan and he provides medical aid as a doctor.

When he began his first irrigation project in 2003, few of the locals believed that lush, green fields would follow. However, the project was such a success that he went on to launch similar projects in other locations and continues his efforts today.

After the lecture, Nakamura openly answered questions and discussed with students and other participants, providing a unique opportunity to interact with someone who has made a huge impact at a fundamental level for numerous people. His final advice for the audience? 

“One of the most important things is taking the time.”

The Institute for Advanced Study plans to continue organizing special lectures like this to further inspire members of the university through interaction with people making an impact on a global level.

Dr. Tetsu Nakamura (left) President Kubo (right)

Dr. Tetsu Nakamura delivering his lecture

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