Bandung, August, 11 2025 – The Rector of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI), Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, M.A., welcomed a visit from Yusuke Nakano, the Mayor of Hamamatsu, Japan, on Monday (11/8) at the Meeting Room of the Parterre Building, UPI Campus, Jalan Dr. Setiabudhi No. 229, Bandung. The meeting was held to discuss potential cooperation in the field of education between Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia and the City of Hamamatsu.

During the visit, Mayor Yusuke Nakano shared that there are currently about two thousand Indonesian citizens living in Hamamatsu, many of whom are workers and students. This has been made possible due to the long-standing cooperation between the Hamamatsu city government and the Bandung city government, which has been ongoing since 2014, fostering the development of both cities.

“Our visit to UPI is to explore the potential for cooperation between UPI and the City of Hamamatsu in the fields of academia and culture, especially considering UPI’s strong academic programs, particularly in Japanese language education and nursing. Therefore, we are opening opportunities for UPI alumni who are interested in working or continuing their studies in Hamamatsu,” said Yusuke Nakano.

He expressed hope that the collaboration in education and culture would soon materialize, aiming to benefit both parties in their mutual development.

Meanwhile, UPI Rector Prof. Dr. Didi Sukyadi, M.A. warmly welcomed the proposed cooperation. According to Prof. Didi, UPI has maintained a strong relationship with Japan, not only through collaborations with various universities but also through the cultural benefits of Japan. One such example is the construction of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FPMIPA) building through a JICA project, which still stands firm, as well as the Lesson Study program that collaborates with several school partners.

“Japan has been a great help to UPI, both academically and non-academically. We want more UPI alumni to be able to pursue careers in Japan or continue their studies there. Of course, this opportunity should not be limited to the Japanese language education program but should also include other academic programs,” said Prof. Didi Sukyadi. Looking ahead, UPI will continue to facilitate anyone, including UPI alumni, who wants to build a career in Japan, particularly in Hamamatsu. With this collaboration, the process will be made easier, and likewise, it will be possible for residents of Hamamatsu to experience studying at UPI.

After the meeting with the Rector of UPI, Mayor Yusuke Nakano and his delegation participated in a public lecture session at the auditorium of the Faculty of Language and Literature Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, on the 4th floor. The event was attended by the Vice Deans of FPBS, faculty members, and students from the Japanese Language Education program at UPI.

In his lecture, Mayor Yusuke Nakano provided an introduction to Hamamatsu as a multicultural city in Japan. During his presentation, he also opened up opportunities for students and alumni who are interested in pursuing careers in Hamamatsu, Japan. (DN)