To strengthen the university’s global management framework and promote a seamless approach—from welcoming international students, to supporting their integration in Japan, to fostering them as global leaders— University of Fukui established the Institute for Global Engagement (IGE) in April 2024. On January 23, 2025, IGE held its Kick-off Symposium at the Bunkyo Campus.

The event began with opening remarks by Trustee, Vice President for Education and Evaluation Affairs, Prof. YASUDA Toshihiro, followed by a keynote presentation from Vice President for International and Global Strategy and Director of IGE, Prof. NAGAI Niro. Prof. NAGAI outlined IGE’s flagship project, “Building a System for Developing Global Leaders Based in the Region.” This was followed by a lecture by Prof. SHIMADA Kazuhisa, Head of Department of Global Networking at IGE, titled “Developing Global Leaders from a Regional Base.” Prof. SHIMADA also facilitated an engaging discussion with participants on the theme “What Does It Mean to Develop Global Talent in Fukui? — The Significance and Potential of the Fukui Alliance.”

Moving forward, IGE aims to work hand-in-hand with local industries, government, educational institutions, and the community to build a new international education model and establish the “Fukui Alliance”—a support system to help international students find employment with local companies and settle in the region.

The symposium was attended by approximately 70 participants, including faculty and staff, international students, and representatives from local governments and businesses. The event concluded successfully in a warm and collaborative atmosphere.

After the symposium, participants joined the annual Exchange Gathering with International Students, an event inviting local community members and partner organizations who support international students in their daily lives. The gathering provided an opportunity for lively conversations and deeper mutual understanding between attendees and the many international students present.