Visit of the President of Tokyo University of Agriculture (Tokyo Nodai) to Strengthen Mushroom and Rice Research for Sustainable Agriculture

Bogor, September 3, 2025 – IPB University hosted the 24th International Student Summit (ISS) on Food, Agriculture, and Environment, carrying the theme “Youth-led Innovations and Community Empowerment towards a Sustainable Future.” This international forum, initiated by Tokyo University of Agriculture, brought together 42 students from 23 universities across 19 countries to share ideas, innovations, and concrete actions on issues related to food, agriculture, and the environment. The series of activities was officially opened at the Andi Hakim Nasution Auditorium, IPB Dramaga Campus (03 September 2025) by the Rector of IPB University, Prof. Dr. Arif Satria, together with the President of Tokyo University of Agriculture, Prof. Dr. Fumio Eguchi.

In conjunction with this event, IPB University received an official visit from the delegations of Tokyo University of Agriculture, led by President Prof. Eguchi Fumio, on September 3–4, 2025. This visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening academic and research ties between the two institutions, particularly in the fields of agriculture, food, and environment. During the visit, IPB University Rector, Prof. Arif Satria, stated that IPB’s vision as a sustainable campus aligns with the spirit of Tokyo University of Agriculture, which focuses on agricultural sustainability and socio-entrepreneurship.

During the courtesy visit, both universities discussed potential research collaborations on mushrooms, rice, and tropical crops. Prof. Eguchi, also a mushroom researcher, emphasized that mushroom development holds significant potential, ranging from health supplements to potential drugs for degenerative diseases. Meanwhile, several IPB experts also highlighted the importance of research into tropical plant diseases, biotechnology, and the circular economy through the use of mushrooms.

After the courtesy meeting with faculty leaders and experts, the visit was followed by tours to several of IPB’s flagship facilities, such as the Museum, Fish Feed Factory, Agribusiness and Technology Park (ATP), Agrophotovoltaic, and Science Techno Park (STP). The visit resulted in several follow-up plans, including collaboration on tropical mushroom research, rice variety development, and postgraduate academic collaboration.