Visit of Bochum City Delegation and Ruhr University Bochum to University of Tsukuba
From April 22 to 24, a delegation from Bochum, Germany, which included representatives from the City of Bochum and Ruhr University Bochum, visited the University of Tsukuba to engage in collaborative exchanges with students and faculty members.
Delegation Details
The delegation consisted of 21 participants, including Mr. Thomas Eiskirch, Mayor of Bochum, city council representatives, and Prof. Dr. Martin Paul, Rector of Ruhr University Bochum. Additionally, the delegation featured officials from healthcare startups and VfL Bochum, a professional soccer club. This visit was facilitated by an agreement established in 2019 between Tsukuba and Bochum, with significant organizational support from the University of Tsukuba in conjunction with the City of Tsukuba.
Campus Tour and Academic Exchange
During the visit, the delegation toured the Tsukuba campus on April 22, participating in an academic exchange meeting that included faculty members from both institutions engaged in similar research fields. The delegation also attended a signing ceremony to establish a double degree program in computer science and participated in discussions with students. Tours of the university hospital and medical research facilities were also conducted.
Discussions on Collaboration
On April 23, discussions including University of Tsukuba President Nagata and Rector Paul took place at the Tsukuba Civic Center, focusing on the outcomes of the previous day’s activities to deepen their mutual understanding.
Final Day Insights
The final day of the visit included discussions on the importance of collaboration among industry, academia, and government, led by Mayor Eiskirch at the University of Tsukuba. This meeting followed the signing of a new agreement aimed at promoting startup initiatives.
Presentations and Future Collaborations
Presentations during the visit included insights from Prof. Dr. Akira Uedono, Regional Head for Europe at the University’s Overseas Offices, regarding the status of collaborations with Ruhr University Bochum, and Prof. Dr. Takashi Oyama from the Department of Sports Administration, who outlined potential future collaborations with VfL Bochum.
Strengthening Partnerships
The existing relationships among the University of Tsukuba, Ruhr University Bochum, the City of Bochum, and the City of Tsukuba have fostered connections that extend beyond traditional institutional exchanges. Expectations remain high for future cooperative initiatives that leverage the strengths of these partnerships.
Source: University of Tsukuba News
