JGU’s Sustainable Development Report 2024 released at India-Japan Higher Education Forum

O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) released its Sustainable Development Report (SDR) 2024 during the India-Japan Higher Education Forum in Tokyo on June 21. The SDR 2024 showcases JGU’s significant strides in incorporating sustainable practices across its campus and curricula, emphasising the university’s role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations. The release function was marked by the presence of His Excellency Sibi George, Ambassador of India to Japan, who officially released the report as a Chief Guest at the Forum.

Speaking on the occasion, Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, said, “We are delighted to have the global launch of JGU SDR 2024 in Japan to underscore the importance of India-Japan relations and to recognise the outstanding contributions of Japan in advancing SDGs and its national and international efforts to fulfil these goals. Our commitment to sustainability is integral to our educational philosophy. The SDR 2024 not only reflects our past accomplishments but also sets a dynamic pathway for future initiatives. It aligns closely with global sustainability trends and our aspirations to contribute positively to the global community. The international collaborations that we have built with 10 leading Japanese universities will also have a strong focus on issues relating to sustainability.”

Over the past few months, JGU has formalised substantive partnerships with several leading Japanese universities, including the University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi Gakuin University, Hiroshima University, Ritsumeikan University, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Kansai Gakuin University, Kansai Gadai University and Ryukoku University.

Ambassador Sibi George highlighted universities’ pivotal role in fostering strong India-Japan relations, emphasising collaboration and academic exchange. He mentioned the important role being played by JGU though its proactive leadership in forging substantive academic collaborations with Japanese universities, setting a commendable example for universities and institutions of both the countries. The Ambassador underscored the importance of such initiatives in deepening cultural understanding and promoting bilateral cooperation between India and Japan. He mentioned the need to further increase and expand the higher education footprint in both the countries as the potential is immense and yet to be fully tapped.

During the India-Japan Higher Education Forum, JGU also entered into a formal partnership with the International Christian University (ICU), Japan, in the presence of its President, Professor (Dr) Shoichiro Iwakiri, by signing a memorandum of understanding for collaboration in the areas of higher education and research. Other notable partnerships for JGU in Japan, including renowned universities such as the University of Tokyo, are also being finalised. These collaborations aim to enhance academic exchanges, joint research projects, and dual degree programmes, enriching the educational experience for students and faculty members from both countries.

The India-Japan Higher Education Forum also featured a panel discussion on “Role of Universities in Fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals”, bringing together senior academics and bureaucrats from across Japan. The forum highlighted the critical role educational institutions play in addressing and achieving SDGs, with discussions led by distinguished panelists and chaired by Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar. The other speakers in the forum were Dr Sukehiro Hasegawa, Chair, Japan Commission on Global Governance; Professor (Dr) Kaori Hayashi, Executive Vice President, University of Tokyo; Professor (Dr) Nobuo Haruna, Vice President for International Affairs, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies; Professor Tetsuo Morishita, Vice President, Global Academic Affairs, Sophia University; and Professor (Dr) Robin Sakamoto, Dean, Faculty of Foreign Studies, Kyorin University. This session was moderated by Professor Vesselin Popovski.

“India and Japan share a profound connection through history and civilisational heritage that is rooted in mutual respect and aligned interests, particularly in education and sustainable development,” Vice Chancellor Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar remarked during the forum. He said, “our engagement with Japanese universities not only strengthens bilateral ties but also fosters a deeper understanding of sustainable practices and innovations in higher education and collaborative research.”

JGU’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its curriculum, campus initiatives and international partnerships. The university has introduced several sustainability-centric courses and workshops designed in collaboration with its Japanese academic partners. These initiatives support the university’s green policies and encourage students to engage with global sustainability challenges.