カテゴリー: TUAN-topics

Overview:

This program is conducted as part of TUAN (Tsukuba Universal Alumni Network) initiatives. It provides opportunities for one-on-one English interaction between international students and university staff to enhance staff members’ English proficiency, communication skills, and cross-cultural understanding, thereby strengthening their ability to operate in an international environment. It also promotes ongoing interaction, contributes to the “internationalization of everyday campus life,” and fosters connections between international students and the TUAN network.

Schedule:
Early June to late December 2026 (schedule arranged between each pair)

Venue:
On campus or online (to be arranged between participants)

Eligibility:
International students enrolled at the University of Tsukuba (meeting eligibility requirements):

・Have permission for part-time work
・Possess strong English-speaking skills
・Are reliable, punctual, and enthusiastic
・Are interested in TUAN activities and willing to support the TUAN General Meeting (October 2, 2026)

How to Apply:
Please apply by completing the application form below:

https://forms.office.com/r/Ni6cWZH4jf

Application Deadline:
Friday, May 15, 2026, 12:00 PM (JST)

Reference URL:
https://twins.tsukuba.ac.jp/campusweb/campussquare.do?_flowExecutionKey=_cF110A035-36C3-D38F-0698-1C6A0359E88D_k35383DD1-9D74-C3F2-E25B-E7C447283192

Organizer:
TUAN (Tsukuba Universal Alumni Network),
Global Commons, Bureau of Global Initiatives, University of Tsukuba

Contact:
Email: gc-kikusei@un.tsukuba.ac.jp
Tel: 029-853-2048

Hello! This is TISS OWL! | 筑波大学 社会・国際学群

We are delighted to share the activities of a student in the School of Social and International Studies, who has been studying abroad at our CiC partner institution, Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA) in France since September 2025.

As part of his efforts to introduce Japanese culture during his exchange program, he planned and hosted a “Hinamatsuri Cultural Exchange” for UGA students on March 11 (Wed) and March 13 (Fri), 2026.

During the event, participants created traditional Hinamatsuri ornaments—such as paper hina dolls and lanterns—using origami. They also cooked chirashi-zushi, a classic dish enjoyed during the festival. It became a wonderful hands-on opportunity for local students to experience and enjoy Japanese traditions together.

He also gave a short presentation on origami, introducing the work of Professor MITANI Jun, a leading researcher in origami engineering at the University of Tsukuba, and explaining how origami-based technologies are applied in fields such as space engineering. Students listened with great interest, fascinated by the connection between Japanese culture and advanced science.

The event offered a meaningful opportunity for cultural exchange, deepening mutual understanding between UGA students and he through this uniquely Japanese celebration.

We are truly pleased and encouraged to see University of Tsukuba students actively sharing Japanese culture and the university’s unique research with their host communities while abroad. We look forward to his continued success in Grenoble and beyond.

On March 4, 2026, three students from the College of Information Science participated in an official visit to the Gradignan City Hall in France as part of the short-term study program currently being held at the IUT de Bordeaux (University Institute of Technology, University of Bordeaux).

This program is offered to students of the School of Informatics and is being conducted at the IUT de Bordeaux—one of the University of Tsukuba’s CiC partner institutions—from February 26 to March 24, 2026. The program is organized and supervised by Associate Professor Claus Aranha of the Institute of Engineering, Information and Systems, together with Professors Serge Bouter, Timothée Lévi, Sophie Cartier, and Bruno Mery of the IUT de Bordeaux.

Although a meeting with the Mayor of Gradignan, Mr. Michel Labardin, had initially been planned, it was not realized due to his commitments related to the upcoming mayoral election scheduled for March 2026.

Instead, the students were warmly welcomed by Ms. Claire Rivenc, a city councilor in charge of international relations and partnerships with the University of Bordeaux. Under her guidance, the students, accompanied by Professors Serge Bouter, Timothée Lévi, Nicholas Journet, and Sophie Cartier, as well as a number of University of Bordeaux students, visited the city-run Musée de la Vigne et du Vin (Museum of Vine and Wine). There, they learned about the history of winemaking and viticulture in the Bordeaux region and viewed tools and materials historically used in grape cultivation.

Gradignan is known as a university town that hosts the IUT de Bordeaux and actively promotes international exchange through partnerships with sister cities. This visit provided the participating students with a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of the local community and its culture.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the faculty members of the IUT de Bordeaux for organizing this visit, and to Ms. Claire Rivenc and the staff of Gradignan City Hall for their kind hospitality.

Musées – Ville de Gradignan 

The fourth TUAN alumni gathering in India was held on February 18, 2026.

With the addition of new members, a total of eight alumni took part, enjoying a warm and convivial atmosphere as they reconnected and strengthened old ties.

With each successive meeting, the circle of participants has continued to expand, reflecting the steady establishment of a vibrant alumni network in the region.

Regular gatherings are expected to further reinforce the bonds among alumni in India and contribute to the continued growth and development of the community.

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Dr. NGO THI LAN PHUONG, Representative of the Tsukuba Universal Alumni Network (TUAN), organized TUAN in Hanoi in collaboration with local alumni.
The reunion was attended by six alumni, along with two staff members currently participating in the University’s international short-term training program, providing an opportunity for cross-generational and interdisciplinary.

Participants shared their memories of their time at the University of Tsukuba and exchanged views on the University’s current situation. The event also served as a valuable opportunity to reconnect with alumni who are actively contributing to a wide range of fields in Vietnam.
Lively discussions were held regarding the future development of TUAN in Vietnam, and participants reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation aimed at further promoting alumni engagement.

TUAN will continue to work toward expanding its network to strengthen connections among alumni and related stakeholders

On Thursday, December 11, 2025, staff members from University of Tsukuba participating in a short-term training program visited Chulalongkorn University in Thailand and held an exchange of views with Associate Professor Chomnard Sittisarn.

Associate Professor Chomnard is an alumnus of University of Tsukuba’s and is currently affiliated with the Department of Oriental Languages, Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University.

During the meeting, various changes surrounding the University of Tsukuba were discussed.

In addition, information was shared regarding the process by which overseas students studying Japanese language and culture pursue study opportunities in Japan, as well as examples drawn from Associate Professor Chomnard’s experience in supervising students studying abroad in Japan.

These discussions provided valuable insights for further strengthening the University of Tsukuba’s international network.

At the conclusion of the visit, as a token of appreciation, TUAN merchandise and cho-come, a new product developed through a collaboration between the University of Tsukuba and local companies, were presented to Associate Professor Chomnard.

Reference:https://sites.google.com/view/japanese-cu/about-us/staff/chomnard

On November 21, 2025, the third TUAN Alumni Reunion of the year was held in India.

Six alumni gathered on the day, and it proved to be a highly meaningful occasion, providing a valuable opportunity to strengthen friendships and deepen mutual ties.

With each successive reunion, it is evident that the alumni network continues to expand steadily.

It is hoped that these gatherings will continue to foster even closer connections among alumni in the future.

On October 26, 2025, members of TUAN Peru convened to exchange ideas on future initiatives, such as promoting teacher training programs and strengthening support for students interested in studying in Japan.

The meeting was filled with constructive discussions, raising expectations for TUAN Peru’s future activities.

On October 3, TUAN held its 2nd General Meeting and networking events in a hybrid format, with 25 participants onsite and 50 joining online.

TUAN representatives Dr. NGO THI LAN PHUONG, Dr. KHAN HIDAYAT ULLAH, Dr. MARIA LISSETH MORALES ALIAGA, and Dr. OMAR SAMIR AHMED ABDELWAHED AHMED participated online.

The first segment was the 2nd TUAN General Meeting, chaired by Dr. NGO THI LAN PHUONG. Discussions were held regarding the reappointment of officers.
The attending TUAN members unanimously approved the reappointments.
Following the approval, the reappointed officers announced new activity goals for TUAN for the coming year.

President NAGATA Kyosuke also joined online and expressed his gratitude and hopes for TUAN to continue building a network that deepens connections among alumni and current students worldwide, supporting mutual learning and growth.

The second segment featured inspiring talks by two alumni who are making a global impact.

MUTO Kohei, CEO of Double Feather Partners and graduate of the College of International Studies, School of Social and International Studies, spoke about his entrepreneurial efforts to address social issues in Africa and the potential for co-creation through international collaboration. He shared his journey from student life to his current career using clear and structured presentation materials, emphasizing the need for continuous change toward the future 20 to 30 years ahead.
During the Q&A session, he addressed questions about what students should experience and value during university life amid rapid changes brought by AI and increasing options. He stressed the importance of real-life experiences and nurturing relationships with family, friends, and partners.

Next, NEVEN STUBIC, owner and chief consultant of KADRO and graduate of the Master’s Program in International Area Studies, Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences took the stage. He shared his experiences working in international relations at the university, handling translation and international student recruitment, and later engaging in human resource development in Japan and abroad before returning to his home country to start a business. His message emphasized the importance of curiosity.
Participants, both onsite and online, asked many questions about job hunting, which Mr. Stubic answered thoroughly.

The final segment was the Fresher’s Meet & Greet, moderated by Director Nakao Nomura of the Office for International Exchange Support. Representatives from the Union of Tsukuba International Associations (UTIA) and the All Colleges Students’ Representative Council (ZENDAIKAI) gave greetings and activity reports. Additionally, the international exchange circle Omochi Language Club and current student gave welcome presentations for new students. The presentations included essential information for international students starting their new lives in Tsukuba, as well as insights into current student interests and thoughts on future careers.

TUAN plans to continue hosting events that connect not only alumni with each other but also alumni with current students.