Honorary Doctorate Conferred to Turkmenistan President at University of Tsukuba Ceremony
On April 15, 2025, the University of Tsukuba hosted a ceremony at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo to bestow an honorary doctorate upon H.E. Mr. Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the President of Turkmenistan. This event coincided with Turkmenistan’s National Day celebration at the Osaka Expo 2025.
Recognition of Educational Collaborations
President Berdimuhamedov’s attendance at the ceremony came amidst a busy schedule, which included a meeting with His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. During the event, he acknowledged the educational and research collaborations established between Turkmenistan and Japan, notably referencing the enduring partnerships with the University of Tsukuba. He expressed gratitude for the honor and emphasized the importance of future collaborative exchanges.
Highlighting Contributions to Education
University President Kyosuke Nagata highlighted the notable contributions that warranted the honorary degree. He noted President Berdimuhamedov’s efforts to enhance Japanese language education and engineering curriculum in Turkmenistan, as well as initiatives to create a memorandum of understanding for collaborative research in the hydrogen energy sector.
Leadership and Continuing Initiatives
President Nagata also recognized the leadership of President Berdimuhamedov, particularly in continuing the initiatives of former President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, aimed at advancing educational and research projects with a focus on science and technology for sustainable development. Additionally, he commended the President’s dedication to promoting Japanese language education at various institutional levels in Turkmenistan.
Participation from Both Nations
The ceremony included participation from officials from both nations, such as Vice President for Global Affairs Prof. Ohneda Osamu, Vice President for Collaborative Research Prof. Nakauchi Yasushi, and Executive Officer and Dean of the Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof. Usuyama Toshinobu.
Presentation of Honorary Degree
As part of the proceedings, President Nagata presented President Berdimuhamedov with the honorary doctorate certificate and a bouquet of white roses, which symbolizes Turkmenistan. The University of Tsukuba indicated its intention to continue fostering academic exchanges with Turkmenistan and to support the development of both nations.
(Source: Tsukuba University)
