Chandigarh: Taking a proactive lead in strengthening India–Japan collaboration, J.C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, today hosted a high-level official delegation from Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, led by Mr. Nakano Shinya, Vice Director General, Commercial & Industrial Department, Fukuoka Prefectural Government. The meeting was held in line with the recommendation of the Consulate General of India, Fukuoka.
The delegation, comprising Mr. Misawa Reiichiro, Secretary General, Fukuoka Institute of Technology (FIT), among other senior officials, visited the University to explore human resource exchange, research collaboration, and institutional partnership. The visit, aimed at exploring human resources for Fukuoka-based companies in sectors such as automobiles, semiconductors, electronics, and renewable energy, is part of the Government of Japan’s broader initiative to facilitate 50,000 skilled Indian professionals to Japan over the next five years.
On this occasion, the University formally proposed the SETU (Strategic Exchange for Talent & University Collaboration) Initiative. Under the Initiative, J.C. Bose University envisions positioning itself as the Central Hub for Haryana for talent pooling, industry engagement, startup incubation, internships & placements, and student-faculty exchange with Japanese institutions and industries in Fukuoka Prefecture. The University also proposed a clear 3-phase framework, starting with internships, moving to corporate networking & recruitment, and culminating in long-term employment pathways to support the national goal of facilitating skilled Indian professionals to Japan.
Earlier, Prof. Atul Mishra, Dean Academic Affairs, delivered the welcome address and provided a brief overview of the University and the programme. Prof. Rajive Kumar, Vice Chancellor, in his address highlighted the shared cultural values and ethos between India and Japan, the University’s rich legacy since its establishment in 1969 as an Indo-German joint venture, its strengths in skill development, research, innovation & incubation, and its commitment to building strong Japan-ready talent pathways. He also referenced the existing MoU with Ehime University and the University’s readiness to develop a structured three-phase Japan-ready talent pipeline.
Prof. Sanjeev Goyal, Dean Alumni Affairs, presented a comprehensive overview of the University, highlighting its key strengths and the proposed collaboration framework with Fukuoka Prefecture.
During the meeting, Mr. Nakano Shinya provided an overview of Fukuoka Prefecture, highlighting its ecosystem comprising approximately 400 semiconductor-related companies, a vibrant startup environment, and its strategic role as a gateway to Japan. He also recalled the strengthening India–Japan engagement of recent years, including the Indian Prime Minister to Japan in 2025.
Mr. Misawa Reiichiro briefed the participants on the institute’s academic programmes and its ongoing international collaborations, including the MoU with the Delhi Board of School Education for cross-cultural student exchanges. Mr. Sanjay Panda, Managing Director, IJ Kakehashi Services Pvt Ltd, ably coordinated the programme and provided interpretation services.
During the interactive session, the delegation appreciated the University’s strategic location in the industrial hub of Haryana, its distinguished alumni network including leaders associated with prominent Japanese companies such as Bony Polymers and Daikin India, and its skill development framework aligned with Japanese industry requirements. The delegation suggested that the University introduce Japanese Language courses to further prepare students for opportunities in Japan. They also assured that the University’s SETU proposal would be duly considered at the Government level and a response would be communicated at the earliest.
Prof. Ajay Ranga, Registrar, proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the distinguished delegation for their visit and reaffirming the University’s commitment to fostering a meaningful and enduring partnership.
The programme concluded with a visit to the University’s Centre of Excellence on Electric Vehicle Technology, University Studios, and Central Research Facility, in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual goodwill that marked a promising start to the India–Japan partnership.
