Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Japan gives a lecture on “European Higher Education in the World”

On June 29, 2016, the ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Japan, His Excellency Viorel Isticioaia-Budura delivered a lecture at Okayama University.

Prior to the lecture, the ambassador visited the President of Okayama University, Dr Kiyoshi Morita, who gave an overview of education and research at the University. There was also an opportunity for a group of staff, faculty, and students to exchange opinions with the Ambassador. Later, there was a meeting on campus at the L-cafe with approximately 50 local and international students, and other interested parties. It was a rare and valuable opportunity to hear the ambassador’s comments and observations about the EU and current events such as Brexit, and the attendees listened intently to the active exchanges.

His Excellency then gave his lecture entitled “European Higher Education in the World: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us” at the 50th Anniversary Hall on the Tsushima campus to an audience of 250 people from throughout the university. The ambassador introduced the origins and the economic and social achievements of the European Union, before moving on to the friendly relations with Japan as a strategic partner, relating success stories of academic cooperation, and the important role that the Japanese have played in higher education in the EU.