News & Announcements

On August 20, 2025, International University of Japan (IUJ) proudly participated in the ABE Initiative & TOMONI Africa Event titled “The Past and Future of the ABE Initiative: Towards Further Bridging Human Resources Development”. The event, organized by JICA as part of the TICAD9 side events, was held in a hybrid format at JICA Yokohama, with IUJ and the Kobe Institute of Computing (KIC) participating as co-organizers.

IUJ is delighted to share that Ms. Mary Magdalene Kemuma Matogo (Kenya, IRP Class of 2018), currently working at Marubeni Corporation, was selected as one of the panelists for this important event. She reflected on her journey as a participant in the ABE Initiative and she emphasized that JICA’s orientation in Tokyo and her life at IUJ provided her with opportunities to experience diverse cultures, and that these experiences fostered her growth through self-reflection and cross-cultural understanding. She also pointed out that the program enabled participants to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese society and strengthen their communication skills. Her story exemplifies the mission of the ABE Initiative in nurturing “bridge-building” leaders.

In his closing remarks, IUJ Vice President Kato emphasized two important points.
First, he noted that the ABE Initiative has promoted mutual learning between Japan and Africa since 2013, and that Japanese companies accepting African students have found their performance to be better than expected. However, as was mentioned in the panel discussion, it was noted that a gap in understanding still remains between Japanese and African people.
Second, he welcomed the new concept of “Tomoni Africa”, emphasizing friendship, togetherness, and equal partnership as the foundation for future cooperation.
Finally, he concluded by expressing hope that this concept would further strengthen Africa-Japan relations.

As a co-organizer, IUJ reaffirms its mission as a university for fostering global leaders. IUJ will continue to nurture and send out graduates like Ms. Matogo, who will play active roles in international business, and to foster human resources who will serve as bridges not only between Japan and Africa but also between Japan and the wider world.