On October 30–31, 2025, the 5th Forum of Rectors of Universities of Uzbekistan and Japan was held at Samarkand State University under the theme “Harmony Between Knowledge and Society: Interdisciplinary Approaches Towards Human Development and Innovation.”

  The event brought together leaders of top higher education institutions from both Uzbekistan and Japan to discuss opportunities for collaboration in science and education.

  Within the framework of the forum, several cooperation agreements were signed between universities of the two countries. In particular, Professor Jasur Rizayev, Rector of Samarkand State Medical University, and Professor Kyosuke Nagata, President of the University of Tsukuba, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on mutual cooperation.

  According to the memorandum, both institutions agreed to strengthen academic and scientific collaboration, conduct joint research projects, and establish faculty and student exchange programs.

  Additionally, discussions were held with Tomomi Furuta, Vice-President for International Relations of Gifu University, focusing on expanding bilateral academic cooperation.

  For reference, a memorandum of cooperation was previously signed between Samarkand State Medical University and Gifu University, which includes provisions for young researcher exchanges, short-term student internships, joint supervision of master's and doctoral theses, and the implementation of a Joint Degree program.

  The forum and the signed memoranda mark another milestone in the strengthening of academic and friendly relations between Uzbekistan and Japan’s universities and play an important role in integrating Japanese educational practices into Uzbekistan’s higher education system.

SamSMU Press Service