Author: Inge Odendaal
As the countdown to the 6th South Africa-Japan University Forum (SAJU 6) continues, anticipation and excitement are building for the event, which will be hosted by Stellenbosch University (SU) from 27 to 29 August 2024. The forum aims to facilitate the sharing of ideas and the development of relationships among participants and stakeholders. This will be achieved through plenary and breakout sessions, as well as panels and networking discussions aimed at nurturing the development of future researchers and strengthening continued collaboration between South African and Japanese universities.
A Platform for Networking and Collaboration
There are various networking sessions designed to bring together administrators and officials from South African and Japanese universities and governments. Topics include research collaboration, with networking sessions dedicated to strengthening partnerships and exploring virtual exchange programmes. Key networking opportunities to look forward to include:
- J-Bridge Networking Session:
- Titled “J-Bridge: Connecting South African Innovation to Japan,” this session is for those interested in collaboration between Japanese and overseas companies.
- Postdoctoral Initiative Networking Session:
- Focused on “Closing the Gap between Research and Policymaking,” this session introduces a new postdoctoral initiative by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the National Research Foundation (NRF), aimed at bridging research with policy impacts.
- Thematic Panel on Research and Education Collaboration:
- This panel discusses the challenges and prospects of collaboration between universities in African countries and Japan, focusing on JICA’s strategy to strengthen core universities through technical cooperation.
- Thematic Panel on Digitally Enhanced International Education:
- This panel explores Japan’s initiatives, such as JV Campus and COIL Virtual Exchange, and discusses the future of international education in the digital era.
- Sophia University Research Networking Session:
- A session reviewing the research system at Sophia University and its expansion into the African region, offering insights into potential collaboration opportunities.
Networking sessions are essential for building connections, sharing ideas, and laying the groundwork for future research partnerships. They also offer the opportunity to expand discussions beyond policy, allowing participants to consider the practical aspects and implementation of these initiatives.
Empowering Student Voices
This year’s forum will also feature and integrate student voices and experiences. The discussions will focus on student mobility and the responsible internationalization of universities. This student-centred approach builds on previous SAJU forums, and SAJU 6 aims to expand on this with multiple student-focused discussions. These events include:
- South African Student Experiences in Japan:
- This thematic panel discusses the experiences of South African students in Japan, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities they encounter.
- The ABE Initiative:
- A panel reflecting on the impact of the ABE Initiative on former participants.
- Responsible Internationalization and Student Mobility:
- This panel discusses the responsible internationalization of higher education institutions with practitioners from South Africa and Japan.
These forum discussions are meaningful because they focus on existing mobility initiatives and reflect on their impact. This, in turn, helps nurture the next generation of academics and strengthens the longevity of scholarly collaboration between South Africa and Japan.
SAJU 6 Gala Evening
A highlight of the SAJU 6 social calendar is the Gala Event at Stellenbosch University’s Conservatory, scheduled for 27 August 2024 at 18:00, which is held in partnership with the Frederik van Zyl Slabbert (FVZS) Institute. This evening will include the annual Frederik van Zyl Slabbert Honorary Lecture, featuring international thought leaders and a performance by SU’s world-renowned choir. Guests will also be able to taste and enjoy cuisine unique to Stellenbosch and South Africa. The Gala promises to be a memorable evening where guests and participants can connect and celebrate the forum’s achievements.
With only a few weeks left, make sure to read the complete programme to take full advantage of the networking opportunities available. Whether through formal sessions or social events, these connections are invaluable for sharing best practices and knowledge, building partnerships, and fostering the next generation of South Africa-Japan scholars.
The full programme provides detailed information on all presentations, researchers, session times, and venues.
Please note that registration is now closed.
