Kumamoto University and Polytech Annecy-Chambéry Hold Strategic Discussion

On April 22, 2026, the Graduate School of Science and Technology (GSST) at Kumamoto University welcomed Mr. Christophe Lambert, Deputy Director for International Affairs at Polytech Annecy-Chambéry, France, and held a discussion on strengthening collaboration in engineering education and research.
 
The meeting began with a welcome address by Executive Vice President Jun Otani. Prof. Ikuro Mizumoto, Vice Dean of the GSST, along with faculty members from related fields, also attended. Based on the achievements of past exchanges, discussions were held on further strengthening collaboration. In particular, active exchanges took place regarding the potential development of double degree programs in mechanical system engineering and electrical and electronic engineering, in addition to the already established collaboration in civil engineering, as well as the expansion of student exchange and the promotion of joint research activities.
 
Following the discussion, Mr. Lambert paid a courtesy visit to Prof. Toshihiro Ihara, Dean of the Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, where further exchanges were held toward strengthening institutional collaboration.
 
GSST is currently proceeding with the signing process for a new double degree agreement in the field of civil engineering with Polytech Annecy-Chambéry. Building on this progress, discussions also addressed the expansion of collaboration in the fields of mechanical system engineering and electrical and electronic engineering, where programs are offered in English.
 
Polytech Annecy-Chambéry is known for its international education programs, English-taught courses, and practice-oriented curriculum with a strong emphasis on internships. During the visit, its distinctive educational features were introduced, including the requirement for students to gain international experience and its research-oriented master’s programs.

Through this exchange, further development of mutual student exchange between the two institutions is highly anticipated.
 

Participants’ group photo


Scene from the discussion session


Courtesy visit to Dean Ihara (right)