From 4–6 November 2025, Yamaguchi University hosted a three-day Staff Development (SD) training programme for two staff members from our partner institution, Shandong University, China: Ms. LIN Zhu, Vice Director of the Department of Communication CPC SDU Committee, and Ms. ZHANG Songying, Section Chief of General Administration Office.

　Shandong University was the first institution with which Yamaguchi University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 1983. As part of this long-standing connection, we have conducted a reciprocal staff exchange programme since 2008.

　This year’s training, mainly organised by the International Affairs Division, began with a welcome address from Vice President Yuri Ishii and a productive discussion. Yamaguchi University presented its overseas publicity and international student support system, while Shandong University shared strategies for enhancing overseas Social Media operations and measures for recruiting top international students. Discussions were also held with the Education Support Division on general education system and quality assurance. Furthermore, based on the long-standing Friendship Agreement between Shandong Province and Yamaguchi Prefecture, the delegates visited Yamaguchi City Hall for external training.

　Through this programme, our staff gained diverse insights, including advanced Social Media utilisation for overseas publicity, trends in Chinese university progression, and differences in the management and administration of general education. Yamaguchi University will continue this SD training with Shandong University to promote professional staff development and further strengthen the exchange between the two universities.