◆The Japan-Taiwan University Summit on Regional Collaboration and Social Practice, along with an international symposium, was held in Kochi City.
Release Date:
On Thursday, September 4, 2025, the "Japan-Taiwan University Summit on Regional Collaboration and Social Practice and International Symposium" was held at the Kochi Kaikan in Kochi City.
This event is an international initiative in which six universities from Taiwan and four from Japan collaborate to promote academic exchange and social practice, with a focus on regional revitalization.
This event marks the first time the conference has been held in Japan, made possible by Kochi University assuming the role of chairing institution for the Japan-Taiwan Alliance in September 2024. Approximately 200 participants, including representatives from member universities, gathered at the venue. A total of 55 presentations were delivered on a wide range of topics, including student exchange, disaster prevention, the food industry, and cultural initiatives, showcasing research findings and practical case studies from the local communities.
In the keynote address, Mr. Nozomi Higashitani, former chairman of the Maru Village Agricultural Cooperative, spoke on “Regional Branding Utilizing Maru Village Yuzu.” A lively Q&A session followed, with Taiwanese researchers discussing strategies for gaining community understanding and technological innovations in new food product development.
During the break, the Urasenke Tea Ceremony Club of Kochi University served matcha, and traditional Kochi sweets were provided, creating an opportunity for participants to deepen their connections.
On the following day, Friday, September 5, approximately 80 researchers from Taiwan visited Nakatosamachi and Yasudamachi. Through on-site inspections, they learned about Kochi Prefecture’s regional revitalization initiatives and engaged with local residents.
Through this symposium, collaboration between Japanese and Taiwanese universities was further strengthened, opening up new possibilities for cooperation aimed at the future of the region.
