#Japan #Sendai #JTB #Tohoku University #Qlick LinQ

Q&A Group Begins Support Services for Tohoku University's Foreign Researchers

The Q&A Group, known for its contact center operations, has partnered with JTB to provide a comprehensive support service tailored for foreign researchers and students residing in Japan. Officially launching in July 2025, this initiative aims to assist individuals working in academia and educational institutions.

Background and Objectives

In light of Japan's ongoing globalization, universities have been proactive in welcoming foreign researchers and international students. Tohoku University, recently recognized as a 'Global Top-level Research University,' aims to increase its foreign student ratio to 30% over the next 25 years. This shift necessitates a sophisticated support system capable of addressing the diverse needs of individuals from various cultural backgrounds.

The growth of foreign personnel has highlighted challenges such as the complexity of support services and communication barriers due to language differences. Responding to this demand, Q&A Group, JTB, Language One, and Toyo Work have pooled their resources to ensure that foreign researchers can comfortably adjust to life in Japan while focusing on their academic pursuits.

Effective Strategies Leveraged by JTB and Multi-Language Support

The newly launched support service is designed to substantially alleviate linguistic challenges and concerns regarding daily living for foreign researchers and students. With specialized staff managing inquiries and procedural tasks, the workload on university personnel is expected to decrease significantly.

Through the innovative use of multi-language digital support, particularly the 'Qlick LinQ' service, researchers can access support lines immediately upon arrival in Japan, even without a local SIM card. This feature enables prompt and culturally sensitive assistance.

Overview of Support Companies and Services

1. Overall Management: Managed by JTB and Q&A Group
- JTB: Works closely with foreign researchers to arrange necessary support services, including personalized scheduling and consultation with related university personnel.
- Q&A Group: Ensures a smooth transition for researchers by coordinating appointments at various facilities and confirming language support for each step.

2. Immigration/Return Support:
- JTB: Offers a one-stop service for flight arrangements, airport pickups, and key exchanges for university accommodations, accommodating sudden schedule changes when necessary.

3. Multi-Language Call Center Support:
- Language One: Provides immediate support for various issues faced by researchers; whether it’s making medical appointments or seeking general assistance, support is available directly or through an interpreter. Utilizing 'Qlick LinQ' ensures easy communication, regardless of location.

4. Accompaniment Support Services:
- Toyo Work: Staff members will accompany researchers during critical administrative processes and can offer immediate assistance in emergencies, particularly in high-stake situations where language barriers may hinder communication.

Anticipated Benefits of the Initiative

• - Reduction of anxieties experienced by foreign researchers and students, leading to an enhanced educational experience.
• - Increased operational efficiency for university staff handling such processes.
• - Establishment of a support center capable of flexible and immediate responses to diverse needs.

Launch Date

The service is set to officially begin in July 2025, marking a significant step toward enhancing the experience of foreign scholars in Japan.

The provision of this support service underscores a pivotal moment for Tohoku University, showcasing its commitment to fostering a vibrant, diverse academic environment. As Japan continues to embrace a more global perspective, services such as these will play a critical role in shaping the future of international education.

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Note: The 'Qlick LinQ' service provided by Language One is a free voice communication option accessible via a web browser, allowing for seamless connectivity. The 'Global Top-level Research University' certification recognizes universities striving to reach exceptional standards in research capability, supported by significant government funding aimed at enhancing research structures and nurturing young researchers.