Courtesy Visit by Principal Officer Virsa Perkins, U.S. Consulate Fukuoka
On December 18, 2025, Kumamoto University received a courtesy visit from the U.S. Consulate Fukuoka.The delegation was led by Ms. Virsa Perkins, who assumed her post as Principal Officer of the U.S. Consulate Fukuoka in July 2025 for a three-year term. She was accompanied by the Political and Economic Officer and staff from the Political and Economic Section of the Consulate. Kumamoto University was represented by President Hisao Ogawa, Professor Toshihiro Ihara, Dean of the Graduate School of Science and Technology and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Professor Toshihiro Kita, Vice Director of the School of Informatics, and Professor Sadahiro Tsuregawa, Vice Director of the Research and Education Institute for Semiconductors and Informatics (REISI).
During the meeting, Kumamoto University introduced its ongoing collaborations with the United States, including a lecture series in cooperation with the Mansfield Foundation, as well as educational activities and exchange initiatives involving U.S. experts. The University also expressed its appreciation for the support received through the English Language Specialist Program and its gratitude for the cooperation in facilitating short-term student mobility programs for STEM to the United States.
The discussions further highlighted the importance of study abroad in the United States as a first global experience for undergraduate students, as well as initiatives that could lead to longer-term student mobility in the future.
The U.S. delegation explained that partnerships with Japan are considered a priority in key areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI). Particular attention was given to Kumamoto University’s strengths in semiconductor-related fields and AI education. They also took note of the University's initiatives in cybersecurity human resource development in collaboration with Google Japan G.K., and expressed its willingness to offer support where possible.
Kumamoto University will continue to engage in dialogue with the U.S. Consulate Fukuoka and other international partners to promote greater collaboration in student exchange, education, and research.
Discussion on future international collaboration
President Ogawa (Right) with Principal Officer Virsa Perkins (Left)
Commemorative group photo