JGU expands academic footprint in Japan with new short-term programs

O P Jindal Global University has announced a major expansion of its academic links with Japan, unveiling five new short-term study abroad programs that will take place in Summer 2026.

The initiative, which the university describes as one of the largest Japan-focused efforts by an Indian institution, is intended to deepen student mobility, faculty collaboration, and cross-border research.

The programs will run between June 15 and July 3 or 4, 2026, and will be hosted by the University of Tokyo, Chuo University, the University of Yamanashi, Kyorin University, and Musashi University.

Each program will offer intensive academic coursework, cultural learning, and exposure to Japan’s blend of tradition and innovation.

The themes cover a wide academic range, including “Japan in a Globalized World,” “Global Japan: Understanding Law, Economics, and Society,” “AI and Humanities: Applications in SDGs,” “Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Exploring Japan’s Heritage, Economy, and Society,” and one program with its theme yet to be announced.

Highlighting the significance of this expansion, JGU Vice Chancellor Professor (Dr) C Raj Kumar said, “This significant expansion of our study abroad offerings in Japan reflects JGU’s steadfast commitment to globalizing Indian higher education and creating meaningful pathways for our students to engage with the world.”

"Japan stands at the forefront of innovation, governance, culture, and sustainable development, and these programs represent an extraordinary opportunity for immersive learning. By building one of the largest India–Japan academic networks, JGU is contributing to strengthening bilateral relations and preparing globally minded graduates equipped to address the complex challenges of our time,” Dr Kumar added.

The announcement comes at a time when India and Japan have spent the past decade broadening cooperation across education, culture, technology, and strategic affairs.

A series of high-level visits and agreements between 2014 and 2025, including the signing of the Japan–India Joint Vision for the Next Decade in 2025, has accelerated academic and youth exchanges.

JGU has used this diplomatic foundation to strengthen its presence across Japan’s higher education landscape.

The university now maintains more than 25 institutional partnerships, including ties with the University of Tokyo, United Nations University, Chuo University, Doshisha University, the University of Yamanashi, Ritsumeikan University, Osaka Gakuin University, and Hiroshima University.

The university’s earlier short-term program with Temple University Japan in 2025 marked its first major student delegation to the country, sending 40 students for cultural and academic immersion.

Commenting on the academic design behind the new programs, Professor Padmanabha Ramanujam, Dean of Academic Governance, said, “The introduction of five new ST-SAPs in Japan reflects the academic maturity and global ambition of JGU. These programs have been carefully designed to maintain the highest academic standards while offering interdisciplinary exposure across technology, society, economy, and culture.”

“This initiative strengthens the academic ecosystem of the university and reinforces our commitment to structured, high-quality internationalization that benefits every student who seeks a globally informed education,” Ramanujam added.

Professor (Dr) Akhil Bhardwaj, Vice Dean and Director of the Office of International Relations and Global Initiatives, said, “These programs represent an important step forward in our long-term vision for global mobility and meaningful cross-cultural learning.”

"Japan offers a remarkable intellectual environment, and our students will benefit immensely from this exposure. At IAGI, we are committed to designing experiences that broaden horizons, deepen academic inquiry, and foster international understanding. The launch of these five ST-SAPs strengthens JGU’s role as a truly global university,” he added.