The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) successfully hosted the 3rd Japan Academic Day 2025, reaffirming its pivotal role as India’s leading hub for academic and research collaboration with Japan. The event followed the 4th Japan–India Universities Forum (organised by JST) held at IITH a day earlier, further strengthening bilateral partnerships in science, technology, and innovation. The 4th Japan–India Universities Forum was attended by the heads of 37 Japanese universities and 36 Indian universities. 

The event was graced by H.E. Mr. ONO Keiichi, Hon’ble Ambassador of Japan to India, as Guest of Honor, and Dr. HASHIMOTO Kazuhito, President, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), as Chief Guest. Mr. HARA Shohei, Senior Vice President, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), attended as Special Guest, while H.E. Ms. Nagma Mohamed Mallick, Ambassador of India to Japan, addressed the gathering via video message.

Over 76 participants from Japan—including representatives from leading universities and research organisations such as RIKEN, NIMS, and NEDO—engaged in discussions with IITH faculty and researchers on strengthening joint degree programs, collaborative research, and student and faculty exchanges.

The event highlighted the significant growth in Indo–Japan academic partnerships through IITH’s Indo-Japan Collaboration Cell (IJCC). Prof. B. S. Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad, said: "The 3rd Japan Academic Day reflects the enduring strength of the IITH–Japan partnership in driving innovation and meaningful knowledge exchange. Since 2008, IITH has built a deep, productive relationship with Japan, and we sincerely appreciate JST, JICA, and all participating universities for their commitment to advancing educational and research collaboration."

H.E. Mr. ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India noted in his address to the gathering: “The IIT Hyderabad-Japan Academic Day is more than just a meeting of minds, it is a great link, strengthening the ties between our country's academic communities. Through scholarly discussions, joint research initiatives and growing networks, this day reinforces the dynamic and innovative spirit that binds Indian and Japanese academic exchanges.”

Dr. HASHIMOTO Kazuhito, President, JST, also remarked in his speech at the event: "With the growing importance of India–Japan science and technology exchange, this forum strengthened collaboration in joint research across universities and institutes. It has boosted the momentum for bilateral cooperation, and JST will continue to advance initiatives like the LOTUS Programme to foster vibrant talent exchange between our countries."

In his address, Special Guest Mr. HARA Shohei, Senior Vice President, JICA, reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between Japan and IIT Hyderabad. He highlighted JICA’s continued support through the ₹1,400 crore ODA loan, the decade-long FRIENDSHIP Project, and more than 160 student scholarships and 100 joint R&D projects, noting that IITH is steadily emerging as a key bridge connecting Japan’s innovation ecosystem with India’s technological growth.

Following the formal sessions, the event featured interactive booth sessions, where participating universities showcased their programs, research areas, and exchange opportunities to IITH students and faculty. The networking lunch and campus tour provided an opportunity for Japanese delegates to experience IITH’s vibrant research and innovation ecosystem.

The day concluded with a cultural evening featuring an Astro Rakugo show, a unique blend of traditional Japanese storytelling and science, symbolising the shared cultural and intellectual ties between the two nations. The 3rd Japan Academic Day witnessed increased participation compared to previous years, reflecting the growing mutual trust and interest between India and Japan’s higher education and research ecosystems. The event reinforced IITH’s commitment to promoting collaborative research, innovation-led learning, and people-to-people exchange, shaping the future of India–Japan cooperation in higher education and technology.