#Global Cooperation #Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Pune City

Strengthening Ties: Okayama University's Visit to Pune

On November 16-17, 2025, President Toyo Nasu of Okayama University, located in Okayama City, Japan, embarked on an important visit to Pune, Maharashtra, India. This journey aimed to deepen the sister city relationship established between Okayama Prefecture and Pune City in 2006.

During the visit, President Nasu had the opportunity to tour the "Pune-Okayama Friendship Park," a site that symbolizes the longstanding relations between the two regions. He engaged in discussions reflecting on the historical context of their friendship and the potential for future collaborations.

In addition to visiting the Friendship Park, President Nasu explored partnerships with various educational institutions in Pune. This included meetings with the Pune Japan Friendship Association and four local universities, including Savitribai Phule Pune University. The discussions primarily focused on educational, research, and student exchange initiatives, highlighting the possibility of joint research projects, the hosting and dispatching of researchers and students, and the expansion of cultural exchange programs.

A highlight of the trip was President Nasu's participation in the cultural event "Konnichiwa Pune 2025," which took place at the Pune-Okayama Friendship Park. Sponsored with support from the Japanese Consulate in Mumbai and the Indo-Japan Business Council (IJBC), the event included traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, Ikebana (flower arrangement) demonstrations, and performances of Japanese songs by local college students. This not only showcased the interest of the local population in Japanese culture but also strengthened the cultural ties between the two regions.

Through this visit, Okayama University reaffirms its commitment to international cooperation based on the sister city relationship with Pune. The institution aims to promote collaborative projects and student exchange programs that leverage the unique strengths of both regions, working towards contributing to a sustainable society. The university encourages continued interest and support for its initiatives as a prominent research university dedicated to fostering community collaborations.

In conclusion, this visit marks another significant step in enhancing the global presence of Okayama University and indicates its dedication to advancing education and cultural exchange on an international scale. Moving forward, the university looks forward to developing concrete partnerships that will enrich the academic landscape of both Okayama and Pune, paving the way for a future filled with mutual benefits and sustainable development.