NEWS

[Participated in TICAD]

The 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) was held in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, from Wednesday, August 20 to Friday, August 22, 2025. The conference was hosted by the Government of Japan in collaboration with the United Nations, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank, and the African Union Commission (AUC).

From the Graduate School of Integrated Studies in Human Survivability, Professor Sato of the International Development Research Group(IDRG) and his students individually participated in TICAD 9 and related events. The students were actively engaged in programs such as the youth program “Youth TICAD,” the 2nd Mock African Union (MAU) Conference, and the TICAD Business Expo & Conference, and some of our students even had the chance to reunite at the venues.

[Youth TICAD 2025]

This youth version of TICAD gathered 100 young participants from Japan and Africa, who engaged in workshops and fieldwork over three days. A pitch contest was held, in which participants presented their joint action declarations co-created during the program. Krinah Jani, an international student from Mozambique, participated in the program, and the group they belonged to won third place in the pitch contest.

In addition, Nyaruai Theuri (Vivi), an international student from South Africa, also took part in Youth TICAD, contributing to the drafting of the Youth Agenda 2055, which was formally submitted to the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs. Furthermore, the team she belonged to was selected among the top 10 pitches of the contest.

[2nd Model African Union (MAU) Conference]

At the Model African Union (MAU) Conference, students assumed the roles of ministers from various countries and simulated the Specialized Technical Committees (STCs) and General Assembly of the African Union (AU). This initiative aims to promote co-creation among Japanese and African youth, while challenging preconceived notions and stereotypes about Africa. From our faculty, Nyaruai Theuri (Vivi), an international student from South Africa, participated as a member of the South Africa delegation and received the Best Delegation Award.

[Youth Exchange and Cultural Evening]

In connection with Youth TICAD, a cultural exchange event was held on the evening of the 20th. The program included a fashion show featuring traditional attire from different countries, as well as exchanges through music and dance. During the DJ session, translated rap lyrics were projected in real time, creating a unique performance. Participants danced together to the vibrant music inspired by African countries, and the atmosphere was lively and celebratory.

Professor Sato and members of the International Development Research Group (IDRG) also joined, enjoying a night that brought Japan and Africa closer together.