On July 1, Sophia University and O.P. Jindal Global University (hereinafter “O.P. Jindal”) held a Student Exchange Agreement signing ceremony at Sophia University.

O.P. Jindal Global University, founded in 2009, is one of India’s leading private universities. In 2020, it was conferred the status of “Institute of Eminence” by the Government of India, a status that grants a high degree of academic, administrative, and financial autonomy to institutions recognized for their potential to enhance international competitiveness and cultivate highly skilled human resources. O.P. Jindal has a strong reputation both within India and internationally.

Since signing a Memorandum of Understanding in December 2024, Sophia University and O.P. Jindal have deepened institutional ties through a series of mutual visits and discussions involving university executives, faculty members, and staff. Building on these efforts, the two institutions have now entered into a Student Exchange Agreement to further strengthen their partnership.

The signing ceremony was attended by nine representatives from O.P. Jindal, including Founding Vice Chancellor Dr. C. Raj Kumar and Member of Parliament Dr. Shashi Tharoor, as well as ten representatives from Sophia University, including Chancellor Sali Augustine and President Miki Sugimura. In addition to signing the Student Exchange Agreement, the participants exchanged views on future directions for collaboration and the implementation of student exchanges, making the occasion an important opportunity to deepen relations between the two institutions.

India, which is experiencing rapid economic growth, is one of the countries that is becoming more and more present in global society. To strengthen its engagement with the region, Sophia University currently has partnership agreements with 15 universities and colleges in India.

In collaboration with its partner institutions in India, Sophia University also offers the Social Engagement Programs for students during academic breaks. These include “Socio-economic and Human Development Study of India: Case Study of Kerala Model” in the summer, and “Fieldwork in Karnataka to Learn about Modern Indian Society, Culture and History” in the spring.

Through pre-departure lectures and on-site learning, students gain opportunities to examine issues such as economic development, labor issues, and environmental challenges, while also deepening their understanding of India and Japan–India relations.

Sophia University will continue to strengthen partnerships with universities around the world as it seeks to nurture individuals who can practice “For Others, With Others” and work together with others toward a better world.