JSS AHER signs MoU with Japan’s Hokkaido University

B. Suresh, Pro Chancellor, JSS AHER, Mysuru and Teruo Sone, Dean, Graduate School of Global Food Resources, Hokkaido University, Japan, after signing the MoU at Sapporo in Japan. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement In a step towards strengthening its global academic and research partnerships, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (JSS AHER), Mysuru, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Graduate School of Global Food Resources, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan, marking the beginning of an academic and scientific collaboration between the two institutions.The MoU was signed by B. Suresh, Pro Chancellor, JSS AHER, and Teruo Sone, Dean, Graduate School of Global Food Resources, Hokkaido University, on Tuesday at Sapporo, Japan.The agreement assumes significance as Hokkaido University celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026.The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation, particularly in biotechnology, food sciences and agricultural sciences. The proposed areas of collaboration include - joint academic and research initiatives in areas of mutual interest; faculty exchanges for academic lectures, research interactions and scholarly discussions; undergraduate and postgraduate student exchanges, including opportunities for internships and experiential learning; development of new curricula and joint academic programmes; preparation of joint publications, educational resources and training materials; organisation of international conferences, seminars and scientific symposia, according to a press release.Following the signing ceremony, detailed discussions were held with representatives of Hokkaido University’s international cooperation offices. Prashanth, Dean (Research), JSS AHER, accompanied Mr. Suresh during the visit and participated in the discussions.The collaboration was facilitated through the efforts of Siddabasave Gowda, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University.Speaking on the occasion, Prof. B. Suresh said, “Hokkaido University brings 150 years of distinguished academic heritage, while JSS AHER brings the aspirations and energy of a young, research-driven university. When experience and ambition come together, exciting possibilities emerge. For us, signing an MoU is not the destination. It is the beginning of a journey in which our faculty, researchers and students must work together to create meaningful academic and societal outcomes.”He said universities do not become global merely by signing international agreements. “They become global when their people begin thinking, learning and solving problems together across borders.”The collaboration has been undertaken with the guidance of Shivarathri Deshikendra Swami, Suttur Mutt, he said. Published - October 14, 2026 06:39 pm IST