Palacký University has taken part in the largest-ever Czech higher education mission to Asia, organized by the Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS) under the Study in Czechia initiative. The delegation, which included representatives from 18 Czech universities, visited Taiwan and Japan to explore new opportunities for student exchanges, research collaboration, and academic partnerships.
The university was represented by Rector Michael Kohajda and Vice-Rector for International Cooperation Ivona Barešová, who also lectures in Japanese language and contemporary Japanese society at the Faculty of Arts. During meetings with eight universities in Taiwan and eight in Japan, discussions focused on undergraduate and postgraduate student exchange programs, short-term study opportunities, and potential research projects.
Several institutions expressed strong interest in short-term stays of one to three weeks, such as summer and spring schools, hospital internships, and customized academic programs. Japanese universities like Aichi Shukutoku University, Nagano University, and the University of Teacher Education Fukuoka showed particular interest in programs for future teachers, while Shizuoka University and Kanazawa University explored research cooperation in areas including quantum technologies, nanotechnology, optics, and agriculture.
A highlight of the trip was the signing of a new memorandum of understanding with Osaka University during the World Expo in Osaka, renewing a partnership that had previously expired. This agreement will facilitate exchanges between Palacký University’s Faculty of Arts and Osaka University’s Graduate School of Humanities and School of Letters.
Vice-Rector Barešová emphasized that studying in Asia offers students valuable experiences beyond Europe, providing new perspectives and potential advantages for future careers.
Source: Palacký University
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