Aichi University: Bridging Japan’s Global Vision and Academic Excellence

As Japan faces a series of pressing societal challenges, particularly in labor shortages and globalization, universities play an increasingly vital role in addressing these issues. Aichi University, under the leadership of President Yuki Hirose, is a prime example of an institution that is not only responding to this but is also setting a benchmark in higher education by fostering internationalization and community engagement.

Founded on the principle of developing students with a global perspective, Aichi University has made significant strides in integrating internationalization into its core mission. "Our university was founded on the principle of developing students with a global viewpoint," says President Hirose. "We are actively working to globalize our student population by accepting foreign students and providing adequate international education to Japanese students. However, this endeavor requires collaboration with companies and governments to be truly effective."

The Japanese government’s initiative to attract 400,000 foreign students as a means of revitalizing the education system aligns closely with Aichi University’s objectives. According to President Hirose, the university is committed to supporting foreign students not only in their academic pursuits but also in their integration into Japanese society. "We strive to support foreign students when they seek employment in Japan," he explains, emphasizing the university’s role in ensuring that these students can contribute meaningfully to the Japanese workforce and society at large.

One of the standout features of Aichi University is its ability to offer foreign students a unique combination of academic excellence and cultural immersion. President Hirose highlights that: "Japan’s education level is one of the best in the world, and this provides a significant advantage for students studying here. However, our weakest point might be our inability to disseminate this information in English effectively." Aichi University is actively involved in its Sakura 21 Project, which promotes intercultural communication between Japanese and international students, aiming to bridge this gap and enhance the university's global outreach.

Aichi University’s commitment to fostering global citizens is also reflected in its robust exchange programs and international partnerships. "In order to globalize our students, it is very important for our university to send them overseas so that they may gain direct experience living abroad," says President Hirose. The university's Faculty of Modern Chinese Studies, for example, offers on-site programs in China, Taiwan and Malaysia, allowing students to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and language. Such initiatives are designed not only to enhance students’ academic knowledge but also to prepare them for the complexities of a globalized job market.

The university’s focus on internationalization extends beyond student exchanges. Aichi University has established strong ties with Chinese institutions, maintaining a historical connection. This relationship has been mutually beneficial, providing a wealth of opportunities for both students and faculty. "Our relationship with China is inseparable," notes President Hirose, underscoring the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering academic and cultural ties with China, despite current geopolitical tensions.

Looking forward, Aichi University aims to expand its global reach by exploring new partnerships in Western countries and Southeast Asia. President Hirose states: "We are thinking about possible partnerships in Italy or France,” indicating the university's strategic vision for the future. "This expansion is part of a broader goal to diversify the university's international student body and strengthen its global presence."

As Aichi University approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026, President Hirose envisions a future where the institution continues to thrive as a global university, contributing to both Japan's academic landscape, its society and the world. "When I complete my term as president, my aim is to leave the university in a stronger position with a promising future," he says. This includes not only advancing human resources but also broadening the university’s focus to encompass more science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related fields.