HTWK Leipzig is the only university in Saxony to be part of the DAAD’s ‘HAW.International’ higher education policy information tour
As part of the ‘HAW.International’ programme, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Faouzi Derbel, Vice-Rector for Research and Sustainability at HTWK Leipzig, will be travelling to Japan from 15 to 21 March 2026. The fact-finding visit is aimed at the leadership of German universities of applied sciences (HAW) and is organised by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Derbel was nominated to take part last year as part of a nationwide selection process. Together with 20 rectors, presidents and vice-rectors from German universities of applied sciences, he will visit key figures in the Japanese higher education and innovation system.
“As a technology-oriented country, Japan is an interesting partner for us. It makes strategic sense to expand and strengthen our relationships with Japanese research partners,” said Prof. Dr.-Ing. Faouzi Derbel.
Focus on applied research and technology transfer
The aim of the trip is to gain an insight into the Japanese higher education and research landscape and, in particular, to learn about the structures of applied research and knowledge and technology transfer. The programme begins in Tokyo with an introduction to the Japanese higher education system, including current funding schemes such as ‘J-PEAKS’, a programme designed to strengthen regionally based and practice-oriented universities.
Meetings with leading universities and innovation centres
The delegation will visit renowned institutions such as Sophia University, the Institute of Science Tokyo and Doshisha University in Kyoto. Meetings with innovation platforms and start-up networks are also planned. In Tokyo, the delegation will gain insights into support structures for technology-focused start-ups and exchange views with key players in the fields of artificial intelligence, deep tech and entrepreneurship. A highlight will be a visit to ‘Station AI’ in Nagoya – one of Japan’s largest start-up platforms outside Tokyo – as well as optional programme elements focusing on smart cities, industrial innovation or regional university cooperation.
Matchmaking and partnerships with the business sector and universities
Two structured matchmaking events in Tokyo and Kyoto will bring the German delegation together with Japanese universities in a targeted manner. The focus will be on practical collaborations, international study programmes, and joint research and technology transfer projects.
In addition, an exchange with business representatives and German companies in Japan is planned. Topics include the promotion of innovation, the internationalisation of start-ups and opportunities for collaboration between universities of applied sciences and industry partners.
By taking part in this higher education policy fact-finding mission, HTWK Leipzig is strengthening its international network and signalling its commitment to expanding strategic partnerships in the Asian region – particularly in the fields of applied research and sustainable innovation.
