The liaison meeting of Selected Universities held
On July 28, Sophia University hosted the first FY2025 “Inter-University Exchange Project (Global South Countries: Africa Region).”
The meeting opened with welcoming remarks from Mariko Iijima, Vice President for Global Academic Affairs at Sophia University, followed by greetings from Tatsuya Hayashi, Deputy Director of the Higher Education Bureau at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
During the meeting, the coordinating university shared key updates, and representatives from participating institutions reported on the progress of their projects, discussed current challenges, and exchanged views on future and opportunities for collaboration.
Following the liaison meeting, a faculty development (FD) lecture titled “JV-Campus and its applications” was delivered by Professor Ryosuke Oba of University of Tsukuba. The lecture introduced the background and key functions of JV-Campus, including its learning management system (LMS), learning record management features, and digital/open badge issuance system. Participants also learned about JV-Campus’s support for micro-credentials, examples of content sharing and international collaborative courses, and the development of Japanese language education materials. In addition, the speaker highlighted global trends in the use of open badges and discussed the potential for multiple universities to jointly develop educational content. The session concluded with an active exchange of questions and ideas regarding the future utilization of JV-Campus within the Global Expansion Capacity Enhancement Project.
A networking reception was held after the meeting, with 17 participants in attendance. The reception provided valuable opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and strengthen professional connections in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The lively discussions contributed to building relationships that will support future collaboration among the selected universities.
Through continued cooperation among participating institutions, SAFICs will further promote educational and research exchanges with African partner countries and contribute to the advancement of international collaboration.
