【Summary】
Kumejima, Okinawa — Saga University held a top-level dialogue during the International Academic Summit for the GX Model in Island Regions (IASIR) on Kumejima Island, Okinawa Prefecture, from March 26 to 27, 2026. Participants included four representatives from the United Nations University (UNU), led by President Tshilidzi Marwala and Director Shinobu Yamaguchi, together with senior officials from Saga University, including President Koichi Node, Vice President for International Affairs Maiko Sakamoto, and Director of Institute of Ocean Energy Yasuyuki Ikegami.
During the dialogue, the participants confirmed their intention to promote the “Kumejima Model” internationally through the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI), led by UNU. The model integrates ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) and the multi-stage use of deep seawater to support industry while preserving the natural cycle from land to sea in line with the satoyama and satoumi philosophy. President Marwala described the initiative as “one of the most beautiful projects I have ever seen,” highlighting its island-wide ecosystem and its potential as a standard model for island regions addressing both energy and water challenges.
The discussion also covered future collaboration in technology and human resource development, including the establishment of GX-focused education programs for island regions, acceptance of student interns through the UNU network, and greater international visibility of research outcomes.
President Marwala expressed his interest in building a strong partnership with Saga University through education and joint research, noting the harmony between technology and the environment observed on Kumejima Island. President Node commented that the university’s long-standing collaboration with the local community on Kumejima has now entered a new stage through cooperation with the United Nations, aiming to share Japan’s knowledge with the world.
Contact:
International planning Office Saga University
Ms. YADA Hiromi
Tel: +81-952-28-8166
Email: kokusai@mail.admin.saga-u.ac.jp