Dec 23 2025

The Japan-ASEAN Online Program toward SDGs 2025, co-hosted by AUN (ASEAN University Network) and the Consortium of Six National Universities in Japan, with the cooperation of Okayama University, was held online over four days from December 8 to 11. This annual program is organized in rotation by the Six National Universities - Chiba University, Niigata University, Kanazawa University, Okayama University, Nagasaki University, and Kumamoto University - and this year, Niigata University served as the host.

The theme of this year’s program was “The Nexus Analysis of Sustainability Issues.” Participants explored interconnections among food, water, energy, and ecosystems to develop comprehensive solutions toward achieving the SDGs. The program attracted 478 applications - far exceeding the capacity of 50 - and, after a selection process, 37 students (24 from AUN and 13 from the Six National Universities) joined the program.

At the opening ceremony, warm messages were delivered by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanapan Laiprakobsup, Executive Director of AUN, and Prof. Takayoshi Suzuki, Vice President for International Affairs and Alumni at Okayama University. Both speakers emphasized the significance of the program and expressed high expectations for future international collaboration, encouraging participants to make the most of this opportunity.

On the first day, Assoc. Professors of Japanese Language led an icebreaker activity where participants selected and presented phrases from Japanese anime. Even students with no prior experience in learning Japanese actively joined, creating a friendly atmosphere and fostering interaction.

On the second day, Prof. Mitsuyo Toyoda from the Sado Island Center for Ecological Sustainability delivered a lecture on nexus analysis. During subsequent group work, students from ten countries, including Japan, engaged in discussions that highlighted how cultural backgrounds influence perspectives on common issues. They worked collaboratively to organize challenges and propose solutions. On the final day, each group presented creative ideas to address issues such as food loss and plastic reduction. At the closing ceremony, Prof. Nozomu Tsuboi, Vice President for Global Engagement, encouraged participants to apply the knowledge and networks gained through the program to their future studies and activities.

Post-program surveys reflected highly positive feedback, such as:
“It was a wonderful opportunity to build intercultural relationships.”
“Learning different cultural perspectives to solve environmental issues was a truly meaningful experience.”
“As a Ph.D. student in environmental public health, I was able to gain ideas to advance my current research.”

These responses demonstrate that the program was a highly valuable initiative.
Niigata University will continue to leverage international networks to promote education and research activities aimed at realizing a sustainable society.

Lecture session

Presentation

Vice President Tsuboi delivering his address

Group photo

Contact

Niigata University Office of Student Mobility Inbound Section
E-mail: intl@adm.niigata-u.ac.jp