Okayama University participated in APAIE (Asia-Pacific Association for International Education) 2026, one of the largest international education conferences in the Asia-Pacific region, held in Hong Kong from February 23 to 27.

The event brought together more than 3,500 higher education professionals from 72 countries and regions. Representing the university, Professor ODA Yuichi and Associate Professor KHALMIRZAEVA Saida from the Faculty of General and Global Studies Division (Institute of Global Human Resource Development) attended the conference and engaged in a wide range of academic and institutional exchanges.

During the event, the delegation met with existing partner universities to exchange perspectives on student mobility and the operation of exchange programs. Discussions also covered a range of areas related to future collaboration, including short-term programs, internships, and research exchange.

In addition, meetings were actively conducted with prospective partner institutions, particularly in Europe, leading to the establishment of new academic connections. Notably, universities such as the University of Copenhagen, University of Southern Denmark, Linköping University, University of Salzburg, and University of Florence showed interest in Okayama University’s Exchange Program Okayama (EPOK), and positive feedback was received regarding the possibility of future partnership agreements.

Furthermore, through participation in the conference, the university gained valuable insights into recent developments at higher education institutions worldwide, including the expansion of English-Medium Instruction (EMI) courses and approaches to the design and management of short-term programs.

Building on these insights, Okayama University will continue to enhance the quality of its international education and strengthen global partnerships, contributing to the development of a dynamic and globally engaged learning environment.