NEWS On 9 October, Umeå University participated in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, as coordinating university of the MIRAI collaboration between 17 Swedish and Japanese universities. There was a full day of activities at the Nordic Pavilion under the theme “Innovating for the Future: Strengthening Sweden–Japan Collaboration Across Academia and Industry.”
The Nordic Pavillion at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
ImageNordic CircleThe event, supported by Umeå Municipality and Business Sweden, brought together leading representatives from academia, industry, and funding agencies in both countries. The Expo programme featured keynote lectures, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to spark new partnerships and strengthen Sweden–Japan collaboration.
The goal is to foster synergies between academia, industry, and financiers to accelerate research and innovation, and strengthen Sweden–Japan ties. By doing so, MIRAI aims to contribute to a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.
Natalie Konomi, Vice President for International Affairs, Kyushu University and Tora Holmberg, Vice-Chancellor of Umeå University at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka on 9 October 2025 with the MIRAI delegation of 17 Swedish and Japanese universities.
ImageJörgen Boström“This is a unique opportunity to showcase how international collaboration can drive meaningful change,” says Tora Holmberg, Vice-Chancellor of Umeå University.
“We’re excited to be part of this global platform and to highlight the role of research in addressing shared challenges.”
Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai was held in Osaka, Japan, from April 13 to October 13, 2025, under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” Hosted on the artificial island of Yumeshima, the Expo brought together over 150 countries and international organizations to address global challenges related to health, sustainability, and human connection.
MIRAI, a collaboration between 17 Swedish and Japanese universities, is dedicated to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through long-term, interdisciplinary research partnerships. The initiative focuses on pressing global challenges such as health and ageing, climate adaptation, resilient cities, and renewable energy. MIRAI is coordinated by Umeå Univeristy and Kyushu University.
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