The programme began with a joint lecture on Growth Strategies and Organisational Challenges, delivered by Prof. Meindert Flikkema, Professor of Service Innovation Strategies, VU School of Business and Economics. Students from both universities learned global business challenges together in an engaging academic setting.
Next, VU student ambassador Şilay Hatabay led a campus tour, introducing the visitors to key spots across the university. The group then headed to the Demonstrator Lab Amsterdam, where VU student startups took the spotlight.
- Aurora Vision - presented by Ramin Latify and Matin Maskitou
- Beyond Bounds - presented by Joey van den Nieuwendijk
Both startups delivered innovative pitches and shared beautiful stories of their journey from being VU student to running a business. The session sparked lively discussions, including a comparison of the startup landscapes and market approaches in the Netherlands and Japan. Bram Bark also guided the group through a tour of the Demonstrator Lab, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how student innovation is supported at VU Amsterdam.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to cultural exchange, led by dr. Marek Jancovic, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Art and Culture, History, Antiquity. The group watched Father and Daughter, the Oscar-winning short film by Dutch director Michaël Dudok de Wit, followed by a quiz on Dutch and Japanese culture. Students also explored the VU Art Science Gallery, with insights again provided by their staff.
Meijo students then took the stage to share their own culture, leading a quiz on Japanese animation and traditions, with support from Prof. Yuri Sadoi and Dr. Shino Ota. The exchange was fun, engaging and full of laughter.
To end the day, everyone gathered at Doppio Café for a pizza party. Meijo students brought traditional Dagashi snacks from Japan to share - a sweet and thoughtful gesture that made the evening even more memorable.
Special thanks go to Prof. Meindert Flikkema, dr. Marek Jancovic, Peter Cirkel and dr. Klaas de Zwaan for their support in organising and guiding the day’s activities.
Sharing reflections from the students themselves: “This visit was more than just an exchange - it was a celebration of learning, creativity and cross-cultural friendship,” said the students.
As one Dutch student added with a smile, “We’d love to come to Japan next time—maybe on a study trip—and meet you all again!” ..and more!