Oct 28 2025

Niigata University has established the title of “Liaison Professor” to honor individuals overseas who have made significant contributions to the university’s international exchange and collaboration activities. As part of this initiative, the Third Niigata University Liaison Professor Assembly was held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at a hotel in Niigata City.

The Liaison Professor (LP) scheme was launched in FY2016, and as of October 2025, 23 LPs from 16 countries and regions have been appointed. This year’s event marked the first in-person gathering in about seven years following the suspension during the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the 3rd Liaison Professor Assembly venue

For this third assembly, the format evolved into a Faculty Development (FD) session, with a focus on more substantive discussions on international collaboration. Four LPs who have made remarkable contributions, Prof. Sajiiv Ariyashinghe from the University of Peradeniya (Sri Lanka), Prof. Li Exian from Central China Normal University (China), Prof. Krishnan Sajeev from Indian Institute of Science (India), and Dr. Ishtseren Lochin from the Monglolian Academy of Sciences, were invited to present their activities and initiatives in international exchange and research collaboration. Their presentations covered the outcomes of student exchanges and joint research with Niigata University, as well as specific proposals for future international partnerships. The event also allowed for online participation, enabling LPs from Turkey and China to join, thus fostering a broad and inclusive exchange beyond geographical boundaries.

Prof. Sajiiv Ariyasinghe from the University of Peradeniya (Sri Lanka) introducing exchange activities across various fields.

Prof. Li Exian from Central China Normal University presenting, including reflections on his experiences as an international student at NU

Prof. Krishnan Sajeev from Indian Institute of Science presenting on collaborative efforts in fostering human resource development in the field of science

Dr. Ishtseren Lochin from the Monglolian Academy of Sciences explaining his research collaboration with NU faculty

Following the presentations, Executive Vice President for Global Affairs, Prof. Toshiyuki Someya, provided an overview of Niigata University’s international strategies and measures to further strengthen collaboration. An active discussion then took place on approaches to enhance international cooperation, particularly in promoting graduate studies at NU among international students. The LPs offered a wide range of insightful suggestions, including the introduction of integrated master’s and doctoral programs, the establishment of international joint-supervision systems, the expansion of scholarship opportunities, and the enhancement of postdoctoral programs. These discussions underscored the strong potential for further development of international joint research and student exchange.

Prof. Someya presenting NU's global strategy

Participants engaging in the overall discussion

After the Assembly, a networking dinner was held, providing a valuable opportunity for the Liaison Professors to strengthen ties with Niigata University faculty. In addition, during their stay, each LP visited the faculties and research centers with which they have particularly close connections, including the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Dentistry, Asian Link Research Center, and the Graduate School of Modern Society and Culture. Through special lectures and participation in international symposia, they also engaged in international exchange activities within each of the faculties.

Group picture taken at the Assembly venue

Networking dinner