Brandon University has expanded its international footprint by signing its first-ever partnership in Japan, formalizing a new Memorandum of Understanding with Tokyo’s Juntendo University. The agreement marks a significant milestone for BU as it strengthens global academic ties and opens new pathways for collaboration in research, teaching, and student mobility.
The partnership creates a framework for student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and the sharing of academic expertise between the two institutions. David Rowland, Director of BU’s Office of International Activities, called the agreement an exciting step forward, noting that it sets the stage for additional opportunities in Japan and across the region.
The collaboration is especially meaningful for BU’s Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies (ADES) program. Japan is widely recognized as a world leader in disaster preparedness, emergency management, and community resilience. ADES chair Dr. Etsuko Yasui highlighted Japan’s long-standing commitment to disaster education across schools, communities, and public institutions, saying the partnership will give BU students valuable access to global best practices.
Early initiatives are expected to include student exchanges and applied research opportunities. The agreement was supported by the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service in Tokyo and the Embassy of Canada to Japan, underscoring the role of international networks in building academic partnerships.
Both universities will now begin developing specific programs and activities under the MOU, with the goal of strengthening ties between Canada and Japan while enriching learning and research opportunities for students and faculty on both sides
