MPPM Public Lecture by Professor Shigeto Sonoda

On 20 October, the Master of Public Policy and Management Programme was honored to invite Professor Shigeto Sonoda to give a public lecture titled “Connecting China and Japan through Higher Education: A Personal Reflection.” He shared with us his experience in leading transnational education programs across Asia for the past three decades. He talked about the evolving academic cooperations, which started with the early "Kaigai-zemi" (overseas seminars) to large-scale trilateral research and short-term overseas visit programs.

Drawing from his experiences at various universities, he discussed the changing macro conditions of higher education in Japan and explained the importance of establishing academic collaboration. He emphasized how collaborative programs empower students by providing hands-on experience in research and strengthening their essential analytical and presentation skills. He also discussed the increasing importance of establishing co-education and intellectual networks across Asia.

The inspiring lecture has led to an engaging Q&A session. Students raised questions about the higher education system in Japan and the differences in learning style between Chinese and Japanese students and researchers. They also discussed enthusiastically the future of further cultural exchange between China and Japan.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Professor Sonoda for his insightful presentation and to all attendees for their participation.