Center's Outline
■Message from the Director
Welcome to the International Center!
We are currently living in an era of interdependence, where various issues are intricately intertwined and globalization is advancing, making it impossible for any single country to solve problems on its own. This trend is expected to continue in the future.
In order to respond to such times, Shimane University has long been committed to internationalization of the university and development of global human resources who can succeed in the international community.
Regarding internationalization of the university, as a university providing higher education in global standards, as of July 2025, we have concluded academic exchange agreements with 93 universities and research institutions in 27 countries, and are conducting joint research and student exchange programs. We also actively receive international students, with over 250 international students studying at Shimane University each year. For international students, we assign Japanese students or senior international students as tutors to each individual, providing detailed support for their start in Japan, including assistance with daily life and academic studies. We support employment opportunities in Japan, especially within Shimane Prefecture. We are also working to establish overseas alumni associations for each country of origin.
As for development of global human resources, the university organizes events such as “Shimadai Study Abroad Week” and “Global Month,” offers overseas training programs, and provides study abroad support, enabling over 300 students annually to travel abroad and develop their global perspective. Furthermore, the university provides a space called “Global Commons,” where Japanese students and international students can freely communicate each other, and regularly holds exchange events to provide opportunities for students to develop an international perspective while they are on campus.
The International Center is responsible for promoting the internationalization of the university and the development of global human resources, as mentioned above.
The uniqueness of Shimane University is to collaborate closely with local public entities such as prefectural government and municipalities, as well as local private companies. As a university rooted in the community, contributing to the resolution of local and regional issues and the revitalization of the region, Shimane University will continue to strive to become a university that aligns with the needs of the times.
Professor SAKANE Koji
Director of the International Center
■Duties of the International Center
Today it is extremely important to promote mutual understanding and friendly relations with foreign countries and establish stable international exchanges with academic institutes overseas. Considering this global situation, the International Center has been offering collaborative international exchanges and world-class education with foreign institutes and local communities in the following ways:
- Planning and implementation of internationalization,
- Concluding and renewing academic agreements with foreign universities and engaging in international programs,
- Offering acceptance and support systems for researchers and students from foreign countries,
- Gathering information and conducting research concerning internationalization and education for international students,
- Managing the International House for overseas students and researchers,
- Promoting international student exchanges within the region, and
- Other required duties to accomplish the purposes of the center.
■Priority Items in the Fourth Medium-Term Objectives and Plan
- Expansion of sending students abroad to study.
- Increase acceptance of overseas students.
- Promote employment of foreign students in the prefecture.
- Establishment of overseas alumni associations.
