NTNU Strengthens Ties with Leading Universities in Japan
National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) has taken significant strides in deepening its academic partnerships in Japan, with President Cheng-Chih Wu leading two senior-level delegation visits to some of Japan's most prestigious private universities. The visits to the Kantō region in October 2025 and the Kansai region in January 2026 brought NTNU representatives to Waseda University, Keio University, Ritsumeikan University, and Doshisha University. Key areas of exploration included student exchange, English-medium instruction, cross-disciplinary research, and industry-academia collaboration.
Waseda University and Keio University
While in Kantō, the NTNU delegation met with counterparts at Keio University. They discussed the possibility of elevating the existing faculty-level partnership to a full institutional agreement. Keio shared insights into its model of early industry internship placements for top students, suggesting that short-term exchanges could serve as a springboard for longer-term cooperation. NTNU, in turn, introduced its experience implementing COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) programs with international partners as well as its cross-disciplinary talent development initiatives with industry. Prospects for future research collaboration in artificial intelligence, multimedia, and technology applications were also explored.
At Waseda University, conversations focused on academic exchange, student development, and international learning opportunities. The two universities discussed expanding summer programs and short-term intensive courses to foster cross-cultural learning experiences for students. Practical matters, such as housing support and student welfare for exchange participants, also featured prominently in the dialogue, reflecting both institutions' commitment to quality student experiences. In addition, the partner universities exchanged ideas on sports science and athletic training programs, identifying potential areas for joint research and applied collaboration.
Ritsumeikan University and Doshisha University
NTNU’s visit to Japan in January 2026 took place in Kyoto, where NTNU met with Ritsumeikan University, a partner since 1997. The two institutions reviewed their collaborative history and charted directions for the future. Discussions highlighted student exchange, interdisciplinary research, and emerging fields. Both sides floated proposals for a young scholars collaboration mechanism, short-term reciprocal visits, and co-supervision of graduate students. Short-term courses in semiconductor and technology fields were identified as a promising area to anchor future cooperation, bridging academic research with industry demand.
At Doshisha University, talks revolved around the Japanese institution's 'Vision 2025' internationalization strategy, which targets a higher proportion of students with overseas experience, increased international student enrollment, and expanded English-language course offerings. NTNU shared its own progress in establishing fully English-medium degree programs and departments. Both universities expressed strong interest in continuing to deepen the partnership, extending mutual invitations for senior-level visits and guest lectures.
Alumni Networks Bridging Taiwan and Japan
Alongside the institutional visits, the delegations led by President Wu met with NTNU alumni associations in both Tokyo and Osaka. These gatherings strengthened bonds across generations of graduates, facilitating the exchange of professional experiences and the sharing of resources. The recent establishment of active alumni chapters in both cities reflects the growing presence and influence of NTNU graduates in Japan, and alumni reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the university's continued international development. Their networks represent a vital, people-to-people dimension of NTNU's expanding footprint in Japan.
The visits to these four landmark institutions mark a meaningful advance in NTNU's Japan strategy, opening new pathways in student training, cross-disciplinary research, English-medium education, and industry-academia partnership. Taken together with the vitality of its alumni community, the university is broadening both the scope and depth of its presence in Japanese higher education.