On February 9, University of Tsukuba held the “Study in Japan Project 10th Anniversary Ceremony” in São Paulo, Brazil. Since being commissioned in 2015 by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) under the Global Network Project to Promote Study in Japan and establishing an overseas network hub for South America, the University has promoted the appeal of studying in Japan, conducted student recruitment activities, and strengthened partnerships with local institutions across the region.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the Project’s ten-year history and reaffirmed the University’s commitment as principal coordinator of this Project to further advancing study-in-Japan initiatives, particularly in Brazil. Approximately 40 representatives from related organizations attended, including H.E. SUZUKI Yoriko, Consul General of Japan in São Paulo; Mr. Roberto Yoshihiro Nishio, President of the Brazilian Society of Japanese Culture and Social Assistance (BUNKYO); and other distinguished guests.
The event was held in the VIP Room of BUNKYO, a long-standing partner of the University. Following opening remarks by Vice President for Global Affairs OHNEDA Osamu, President NAGATA Kyosuke delivered the host’s address. Congratulatory remarks were subsequently offered by Consul General SUZUKI; President Nishio; and Professor Aluisio Segurado, newly appointed President of the University of São Paulo (USP), whose message was read by Vice President for International Affairs Paulo Braz. A congratulatory message was also delivered via video by Mr. Shigekazu Matsuura, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, in charge of Higher Education and Science and Technology Policy Coordination. Dr. FUKUSHIGE Mizuho, Director of the South America Office, then delivered a presentation titled “Presentation of Study in Japan’s 10-year History,” highlighting the University’s initiatives and accomplishments over the past decade.
During the luncheon reception, participants engaged in active discussions on future avenues for cooperation and the expansion of student exchange. The cordial atmosphere fostered meaningful exchanges and reaffirmed the Project’s role as a bridge between Brazil and Japan. Participants also expressed appreciation for continued opportunities for engagement and emphasized the importance of strengthening higher education collaboration between the two countries.
The ceremony also included the conferral of an honorary doctorate from the University of Tsukuba. President NAGATA awarded the honorary degree to Dr. Renato Ishikawa, Honorary President of BUNKYO, in recognition of his long-standing contributions to promoting exchange and human resource development between Japan and Brazil, as well as his significant support for the University’s education and research activities.
Before and after the ceremony, President NAGATA held separate meetings with President Nishio, Consul General SUZUKI, and President Segurado to exchange views on enhancing collaboration and advancing initiatives that contribute to the continued development of both countries.
University of Tsukuba will continue to support students from Brazil and across South America in pursuing study opportunities in Japan, further strengthen partnerships with local institutions, and actively promote two-way academic exchange.
