On 5 February 2026, UNU-IAS and Waseda University Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies (GSAPS) signed an Agreement on Academic Exchange and Memorandum of Student Exchange.
The signing ceremony took place at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo. It was attended by Prof. Shinobu Yume Yamaguchi (UNU-IAS, Director), Prof. Atsushi Kato (GSAPS, Dean) and Dr. Yasushi Katsuma, who has concurrent roles with GSAPS and UNU-IAS. The Agreement on Academic Exchange will promote and enhance joint research and educational activities by the institutions. The Memorandum of Student Exchange enables students of each institution to take courses at the other and gain credits towards their degree programme. This partnership expands the opportunities available for students at both institutions for study and interaction with other students, thus further developing leaders who will contribute to building a more sustainable future.
The Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies (GSAPS) at Waseda University, founded in 1998, offers a unique bilingual education in Japanese and English, allowing students to earn degrees in either language. With over 70% of its student body coming from more than 50 countries, GSAPS provides a diverse and multicultural learning environment. The school boasts a comprehensive research environment with faculty dedicated to mentoring graduate students and conducting high-level research at the Institute of Asia-Pacific Studies (WIAPS). GSAPS faculty members have extensive real-world experience in international organizations, government agencies, business and media. The school actively supports student research in a variety of ways, including student exchange programmes, field research grants and internships, and has established academic exchange agreements with top institutions across Asia. GSAPS also has a global network of alumni who have become leaders in various fields, with many graduates holding prestigious positions worldwide.
