A delegation from the University for Foreigners of Perugia, composed of Rector Valerio De Cesaris, the Rector's Delegate for Peace Policies Professor Angela Sagnella, and Japanese Language lecturer Rie Inouchi, is on an institutional mission in Japan to strengthen scientific, cultural, and academic cooperation with partner universities.
The mission began in Hiroshima, coinciding with the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing. On August 6th, the delegation attended the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, together with Japan’s highest authorities and institutional representatives from around the world.
The delegation also visited Hiroshima University Hospital, an international centre of excellence for research on the effects of radiation and disaster medicine. This visit reaffirmed that building peace also depends on scientific research, cooperation, and the universal right to health.
Among the mission’s key events was the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference at Hiroshima University, which brought together university presidents and international academic representatives to reflect on the role of universities in building peace.
In his address, Rector Valerio De Cesaris highlighted the importance of culture, education, and cultural diplomacy as tools to counter the logic of war and to learn to see others not as threats but as counterparts. Quoting Maria Montessori, who is deeply connected to the University’s history, he recalled that “peace is built through education.”
The mission will continue in Nagasaki, where the delegation will participate in the commemorations on August 9th and attend further institutional meetings with partner universities.
This journey renews the commitment of the Università per Stranieri di Perugia to academic diplomacy based on intercultural dialogue, international cooperation, and a culture of peace.
