On November 6, 2024, Shinshu University Faculty of Agriculture welcomed two distinguished representatives from the University of Helsinki, Finland: Dr. Mari Sandell, Professor and Vice Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, specializing in Sensory Food Science, and Mr. Mikael A. Malmivaara, Head of the Communications & Community Relations Team at the University of Helsinki.

The representatives sought to learn more about Shinshu University's research, particularly in agriculture, and to explore potential collaboration areas between the two institutions. Their visit also focused on exploring initiatives and projects related to food, forestry, and the environment, especially their impact on local communities.

Before arriving at Shinshu University, the delegation visited Ina City, which has a history of collaboration in forestry and education with local governments and academia in Finland. At Ina City Hall, the delegation was warmly welcomed by city officials, including the Mayor, who introduced various sustainability projects led by the city. The representatives from Helsinki shared an overview of their university and expressed interest in exploring collaborative opportunities with both the city and the Shinshu University Faculty of Agriculture, whose representatives were also present at the meeting.

Following their visit to Ina City Hall, the delegation arrived at the Faculty of Agriculture, where they held discussions with faculty members and toured various laboratories. Both parties demonstrated enthusiasm for developing joint initiatives in education and research.
This visit has sparked discussions toward establishing fruitful collaborations that unite academia, government, and local communities, reinforcing the shared commitment to sustainability and innovation.

We look forward to fostering a strong partnership with the University of Helsinki and will share updates as these collaborations progress.

At Ina City Hall

With the Faculty members