Kick-Off Symposium for the University of Tsukuba’s Inter-University Exchange Project with EU Countries
The University of Tsukuba recently hosted a kick-off symposium for its Inter-University Exchange Project with European Union countries. The event, titled “International Cooperative Education Program with EU Universities for Interdisciplinary Fields of Nano-, Quantum, Information, and Bio-Technologies,” took place on May 20, 2025, at the Central Library Conference Room.
Initiative Overview
This initiative is part of a broader program initiated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), aimed at enhancing student exchange at the master’s level. The University of Tsukuba’s Graduate School of Science and Technology is collaborating with six partner universities in Europe, specifically Université Grenoble Alpes, University of Bordeaux, Ruhr University Bochum, University of Bonn, KU Leuven, and Utrecht University. The primary goal is to develop global talent capable of driving innovation across various interdisciplinary fields.
Pre-Event Activities
Prior to the symposium, a pre-event was organized at the Student Commons in Building 1A to facilitate interaction between students from the University of Tsukuba and representatives from partner institutions. Approximately 30 students showed interest in the exchange program, engaging with representatives at informational booths and attending presentations about the available opportunities.
Symposium Highlights
The afternoon symposium began with opening remarks from the Vice President for Education, Professor Mitsuyasu Kato. This was followed by an overview of the program by Project Leader Professor Yukinobu Kuroda, Dean of the Degree Programs in Pure and Applied Sciences. A keynote lecture was presented by Professor Toshiyuki Takagi, Director of the JSPS Strasbourg Office. Representatives from the partner universities then introduced their institutions and discussed their international exchange initiatives.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The event concluded with a reception held at the Soup Factory in Building 1A, providing an informal setting for continued discussions and networking. As the program progresses, further collaborations with partner universities are anticipated.
(Source: University of Tsukuba)
