University Presidents for Peace Conference - Africa Chapter: Presidents of Hiroshima University and African universities discuss the role of universities in promoting sustainable world peace

On November 25, 2024, the "University Presidents for Peace Conference - Africa Chapter" was held at Hiroshima University’s SENDA LAB on the Higashi-Senda Campus as part of "Hiroshima University Africa Day." Approximately 20 representatives, including university presidents from the Pan-African University and Tlemcen University, who endorsed the "Declaration of University Presidents for Peace" adopted on August 6, 2024, gathered for this event.

The Conference began with opening remarks by President Ochi, delivered in the presence of local media. In his speech, President Ochi stated, "The role we universities should play now is very important. I believe that if students from all over the world, with different backgrounds, learn and discuss together through international exchange, it will be possible to overcome different cultures and values and realize peace throughout the world. I strongly hope that university leaders and young people from around the world, including Africa, will visit Hiroshima, witness the reality of the atomic bombing, and have opportunities to reflect and act on peace and sustainability."

Greetings by Professor Jean Koulidiati, President of the Pan-African University

Following this, Professor Jean Koulidiati, President of the Pan-African University, expressed his desire to take concrete actions and expand cooperation in the future, stating:

“By concluding this agreement with Hiroshima University, we hope that providing students with the opportunity to study in Hiroshima will be an important step in contributing to the realization of a peaceful and inclusive society and promoting sustainable development.”

The subsequent discussions included presentations from university presidents about the features of their campuses and their initiatives on peace and sustainability. They also exchanged views on expanding collaboration between African universities and Hiroshima University.

As the conference concluded, President Ochi read aloud the "Declaration of University Presidents for Peace - Africa Chapter," which was unanimously adopted amidst a round of applause. The university leaders and participants pledged to strengthen their collaboration with firm handshakes.

Scenes from the Meeting

Declaration Reading by President Ochi

In the afternoon, participants toured Hiroshima University’s two campuses.
At the Higashi-Hiroshima Campus, they visited the Synchrotron Radiation Research Center and engaged in discussions with 30 African international students currently studying at the university. The students shared their perspectives and experiences, enriching the interaction with their insights.
Later, the delegation moved to the Kasumi Campus, where they observed advanced radiological diagnostic equipment such as the hybrid vascular imaging system (IVR). Participants remarked:
"The cutting-edge research facilities and high-quality education at Hiroshima University are immensely appealing to researchers and students affiliated with universities in Africa. Hearing directly from the international students was particularly valuable and inspiring."

Campus Tour at Higashi-Hiroshima campus

Discussion Session with African Students

Group Photo with African students

Visit to the Kasumi Campus

Participating Universities in the University Presidents for Peace - Africa Chapter

Hiroshima University
Pan-African University (Pan African University Institute of Water and Energy Sciences, including Climate Change(PAUWES), Algeria)
Pan-African University (Pan African University Institute of Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation(PAUSTI), Kenya)
Pan-African University (Pan African University Institute of Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences(PAUGHSS), Cameroon
Pan-African University (Pan African University Life & Health Science Institute, including Health & Agriculture (PAULESI), Nigeria)
Tlemcen University (Algeria)