Hiroshima, Japan_ The Pan African University (PAU) participated in  Hiroshima University’s University Presidents for Peace – Africa Chapter on November 25-26, 2024, marking a significant step in African-Japanese academic cooperation. Led by PAU Rector Prof. Jean Koulidiati, the delegation included directors from PAU's continental network of institutes, demonstrating the university's comprehensive approach to African higher education.

In his address, Prof. Koulidiati emphasized PAU's success in fostering pan-African integration through its innovative approach to student mobility and multicultural learning environments. The university's entrepreneurship initiatives, particularly evident in its operational hubs in Ibadan, Nairobi, and Tlemcen, showcase its dedication to combining theoretical knowledge with practical innovation.

The institute directors equally presented their achievements, showcasing PAU's continental impact. PAUWES Director Prof. Abdellatif Zerga reported training 660 students with 35% female representation across 45 African Union member states. PAUSTI demonstrated significant research output with 843 publications and 15 patents, while PAUGHSS, represented by Deputy Director Dr. Gabsa Lidwina, highlighted its role in promoting peace and sustainable development. PAULESI outlined its programs addressing environmental and health challenges through specialized courses.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Mitsuo Ochi, President of Hiroshima University, addressed current global challenges, noting ongoing conflicts in nearly 60 countries and the existence of approximately 12,000 atomic bombs worldwide. He stressed universities' crucial role in developing future leaders with diverse perspectives and deep mutual understanding, particularly relevant following the G7 Hiroshima Summit's peace initiatives.

At the heart of the event, three distinguished leaders, notably Dr. Mitsuo Ochi, President of Hiroshima University, Prof. Jean Koulidiati of PAU, and Prof. Meghachou Mourad of the University of Abou Bekr Belkaid Tlemcen, signed a significant declaration strengthening their commitment to the University Presidents for Peace initiative. The declaration emphasized two key areas: the formation of partnerships to promote peace and sustainability, and the development of bilateral exchange programs for students and young researchers.

The two-day program featured tours of Hiroshima University's advanced facilities, including the Research Institute for Synchrotron Radiation Science. Participants also visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, an experience that deeply resonated with the gathering's themes of peace-building through education and international cooperation.

Hiroshima's transformation from a site of atomic devastation to a global symbol of peace and resilience provided a powerful backdrop for discussions about educational cooperation and peaceful development. The African delegation's presence in Hiroshima underscored the universal importance of peace-building through academic collaboration and cultural exchange.

The event culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Hiroshima University and the African Union, represented by the PAU, laying the groundwork for enhanced academic exchange and joint research initiatives. This collaborative agreement aims to address global challenges while nurturing future leaders committed to peace and sustainable development, reflecting the shared vision of educational institutions across both continents.

This landmark gathering marks another significant step in the ongoing collaboration between Japanese and African educational institutions, reinforcing their shared commitment to advancing peace, sustainability, and academic excellence through meaningful international partnerships.

Speech of Prof. Jean Koulidiati, Rector of the Pan African University

Opening Remarks by President Ochi 20241125