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Japan-ASEAN Online Program toward SDGs 2025

From December 8 to 11, 2025, Okayama University, in collaboration with Niigata University and the ASEAN University Network (AUN), hosted the Japan-ASEAN Online Program toward SDGs 2025. This virtual event garnered immense interest, attracting 478 applications from students, far exceeding the program's capacity. 37 students participated, representing both AUN member universities and national universities in Japan, including Okayama University.

The program centered on the theme of “The Nexus Analysis of Sustainability Issues,” enabling students to engage with complex sustainability challenges and learn the significance of a comprehensive approach to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During the opening ceremony, AUN Secretary-General Thanapan Laiprakobsup delivered an encouraging message to the participants alongside Okayama University’s Vice President, Takayoshi Suzuki, who motivated students in his address.

The first day featured lectures and group facilitation by Professor Mitsuyo Toyota from Niigata University. Students were grouped together to discuss various proposals addressing sustainability issues, including food waste reduction, plastic waste minimization, water resource management, and disaster resilience strategies through the building of smart environmental monitoring systems. Professors Takeo Inamori and Halimurzaeva Saida from Okayama University contributed by guiding and supporting students during these group activities.

On the final day of the program, each group presented their action plans for tackling designated challenges, showcasing diverse ideas and solutions. During the closing ceremony, Vice President Nozomu Tsuboi of Niigata University commended the students for their active participation and innovative proposals, urging them to utilize their learnings in future initiatives towards creating a sustainable and inclusive society.

Since the establishment of a partnership agreement in 2013 between AUN and six national universities, the community has maintained dynamic exchanges through summer programs and collaborative ventures. This initiative reflects a concerted effort towards further academic and research collaborations among member universities, enhancing joint academic research and global human resource development.

Student Insights

One of the participants, third-year agricultural student Asuka Kanasawa, expressed her motivation to join the program stemmed from her interest in nexus analysis. She recognized that solving SDGs-related issues requires collaboration among nations rather than acting independently. Kanasawa's group focused on the pressing problem of food waste, discovering that their concern resonated with many as three out of the seven groups addressed similar topics. She highlighted the enriching experience of not just engaging in discussions but also building connections with fellow students, reminiscing about a memorable ice-breaking activity where they recited famous lines from Japanese anime together.

The success of the Japan-ASEAN Online Program for SDGs 2025 illustrates the commitment of Okayama University in supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a promising future for continued international collaboration among universities to address global challenges.

Looking Forward

Okayama University remains dedicated to nurturing a robust global community while contributing to the sustainability agenda, as evidenced by the enthusiastic participation in programs like this, triumphantly promoting educational exchanges within the ASEAN framework. The local and international networks established during such events are crucial for fostering innovative solutions in the ongoing quest towards achieving the SDGs.

For further information on this initiative and other global engagement programs offered by Okayama University, please visit the official university website at Okayama University.