This issue focuses on SDM's international relationships and the steps we are taking to further strengthen those connections. This year's exchange program between Technical University of Delft (TU Delft) has ended successfully; five TU Delft students in Japan went home after their final presentation about their stay and five SDM students visiting TU Delft safely returned. Their reports show that they learned a lot from their stay. I enjoyed reading the students' reports on their various activities; some focused on attending lectures, some were engaged in research, and they all made a lot of friends and enjoyed student life. Moreover, all students participating in a short-term visit to INSA Toulouse in France and in the intensive lectures on medical and pharmaceutical systems in Washington D.C. reported that they were fully satisfied with the trips. All returned home with a renewed sense of purpose in their studies and research. By enhancing international collaboration with top-ranking universities, we continue to encourage short-term or mid-term study abroad programs and train those who will be active on the front lines in the world.
Yoshiaki Ohkami
Director, SDM Research Institute
Dean, Graduate School of System Design and Management