On February 13, 2025, VNU Vietnam Japan University (VJU) and Waseda University officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the establishment of a Double Degree (DD) program. The signing ceremony took place in a hybrid format, with representatives from both institutions participating from Japan and Vietnam.
Delivering remarks from Waseda University in Tokyo, Professor Furuta Motoo, Rector of VJU, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and efforts of faculty and staff from both universities. He extended special gratitude to Professor Yoichi Sato (Rector), Professor Kitamura, and Professor Yamada from the School of Social Sciences, Waseda University, whose commitment and contributions made this milestone event possible.
This agreement marks another significant step in strengthening the strategic partnership between Waseda – one of Japan’s most prestigious and long-established universities – and VJU, a flagship initiative symbolizing the strong friendship between Vietnam and Japan. Since its establishment, VJU has benefited greatly from Waseda’s support in coordinating key academic initiatives, including the Master’s Program in Area Studies (MAS), the Japanese Language Education Center, and the soon-to-be-launched Doctoral Program in Japanese Studies (DJS). Through this Double Degree collaboration, both institutions reaffirm their commitment to academic excellence and to fostering a highly skilled workforce capable of serving as future bridges between Vietnam, Japan, and the global community.
In today’s rapidly changing world, interdisciplinary cooperation and cross-cultural understanding are more critical than ever. The DD program serves as VJU and Waseda’s response to the challenges of globalization, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and international perspective necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Prof. Furuta Motoo expressed his strong belief that the MOU signing represents a major milestone for both universities and voiced high expectations for the future achievements of students enrolled in the DD program.
Additionally, Professor Furuta introduced key highlights of VJU’s upcoming Bachelor’s Program in Asian Development Studies, which features a diverse curriculum, with most courses taught in English. Scheduled to launch in September 2025, this program aims to expand VJU’s student base and meet the growing demand for English-language academic exchanges with international partner universities, including those in Japan.
In response, Waseda professors highlighted both similarities and distinctions between the Taishi Program (developed by Waseda in collaboration with VJU) and VJU’s independent curriculum, suggesting that further discussions should be held to clarify specific aspects. Moreover, Waseda proposed that VJU incorporate additional courses in economics and business administration to better address the strong demand from Vietnamese students. Given the School of Social Sciences at Waseda’s extensive academic resources and robust curriculum, the university expressed its willingness to share and provide academic support to VJU. Waseda hopes that both institutions will continue to foster academic exchanges and jointly develop more initiatives for students, faculty, and researchers.
