Signing Ceremony with Université Bourgogne Europe (France)

On October 23, a signing ceremony was held at Kusunoki Hall, Kurokami North Campus, to formalize the inter-university exchange agreement between Kumamoto University and Université Bourgogne Europe (France). The ceremony was attended by distinguished representatives from both institutions, including President Vincent Thomas and Vice President Grégory Wegmann alongside several other representatives from Université Bourgogne Europe. Also present were notable guests from Dijon Métropole, the home region of the university, including Deputy Mayor of Dijon and Councillor of Dijon Métropole Mr. Denis Hameau and Ms. Lydie Pfander-Meny, alongside several other representatives from the Dijon Métropole. From Kumamoto University, the ceremony was attended by President Hisao Ogawa, Executive Vice President Jun Otani, and three faculty members.

Following the opening remarks from President Ogawa, President Thomas, and Deputy Mayor Hameau, Professor Michel Sagaz from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences presented an overview of Kumamoto University, as well as the background of the partnership agreement, delivered in French.

The signing of the agreement took place in a warm and collegial atmosphere, marking the beginning of a strengthened academic relationship between the two universities.

Following the ceremony, the delegation from Université Bourgogne Europe and Dijon Métropole was given a tour of the Memorial Museum of the Fifth High School, where they had the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Kumamoto University.

To celebrate the two-year anniversary of the MOU signed to promote international exchange between Kumamoto Prefecture and Dijon Métropole, the "Dijon Bourgogne Week" is currently taking place in Kumamoto from October 22 to 28, 2025 and Kumamoto University hosted the "French Bande Dessinée Exhibition – Manga from the Artistic Nation" and talk event. These events, including the signing of the agreement between the two universities, not only foster deeper academic collaboration and exchange between Kumamoto University and Université Bourgogne Europe, but also strengthens the cultural ties between Kumamoto and Dijon Métropole.