To broaden students’ global perspectives and promote intercultural exchange, the DJP hosted a delegation from Hokkaido University’s overseas special program “Culture, Science and Health in Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzhen” on March 12, 2026. This practice-oriented program, jointly connected with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the University of Macau, and Shenzhen University, combines classroom learning, facility visits, and student interaction to strengthen participants’ international outlook, intercultural communication, and independent learning.
Coordinated by DJP, the visit included a campus tour, lunch, class participation, and a student forum. Participants included five faculty members and students from Hokkaido University and around thirty students from the DJP, engaging in face-to-face discussions in a multilingual setting.
In the morning, UM students guided the delegation around campus, introducing the campus layout, learning facilities, and student life. Over lunch, both groups continued informal conversations, building friendships and initial connections for future collaboration. Hokkaido University students later noted that being guided by current students helped them better understand daily learning and life at the University of Macau, and that shared interests also brought the groups closer.
In the afternoon, the delegation joined an interdisciplinary academic program that highlighted the University of Macau’s integrated teaching resources. They first attended a special lecture on 2D physics delivered by Prof. Shen Lai and visited a research laboratory to learn about the University of Macau’s research environment and facilities in the physical sciences. They then took part in a Japanese language class hosted by Prof. Li Yuzhe, where students discussed learning and research topics; Hokkaido University students also gave short presentations introducing their university and their academic fields.
According to Hokkaido University’s program report, the visit ran smoothly, and the active exchange with overseas students supported participants in developing initiative and international perspectives in an intercultural environment. Some students also reflected that the experience highlighted both shared regional connections and clear cultural and social differences within Asia, motivating them to pursue further overseas learning. This visit not only strengthened the long-standing friendship between the DJP and Hokkaido University, but also reinforced the Department’s commitment to sustained, high-quality international exchange.
