Dean of Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences (PAPRSB IHS) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam Professor Kenneth Yuh Yen Kok and academic staff from PAPRSB IHS Dr Hajah Fazean Irdayati binti Haji Idris and Dr Liyana Ahmad in a group photo with key members of Kagawa University. PHOTO: UBD
Local, Japanese universities celebrate 20 years of collaboration
On: 13 December 2024
In: Borneo Bulletin > National
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Kagawa University celebrated the 20th anniversary of their academic partnership in Japan on Wednesday.
The event marked two decades of successful collaboration, which began in 2005, fostering research initiatives and student exchange programmes.
The partnership has led to joint research in areas such as public health, diabetes, childhood obesity and nutrition education. Both universities are working on using rare sugars as a dietary supplement for people with diabetes or obesity. Kagawa University is a leader in rare sugar production, making the region a hub for this research. Other collaborative efforts include workshops in Brunei schools promoting healthy nutrition.
During the celebration, Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Tokyo Pengiran Amir Johan bin Pengiran Haji Ismail highlighted the importance of both countries’ 40-year diplomatic relationship, emphasising the ongoing commitment to strengthening ties.
Kagawa University President Professor Natsuo Ueda expressed pride in the partnership and the potential for future collaboration in education and research. UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle also celebrated the strong academic and professional growth resulting from the partnership, while Dean of Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences (PAPRSB IHS) at UBD Professor Kenneth Yuh Yen Kok praised the mutual understanding and respect fostered through the collaboration.
The event also showcased the impact of the partnership, including the success of Bruneian students who studied at Kagawa University. The exchange programmes continue to benefit students, with six UBD medical students currently participating in Kagawa University’s International Winter Medical School.
Looking ahead, both universities are committed to further expanding their partnership in clinical research, professional exchange and training, ensuring continued positive impact in both communities and beyond.