School of Chemical Engineering Receives Visitors from Shinshu’s Institute of Aqua Regeneration, Japan
The delegation was led by Professor Dr. Katsuya Teshima, Director of the Institute of Aqua Regeneration, Shinshu University, accompanied by Professor Dr. Daisuke Mizusawa. Also present during the visit was Mr. S.K. Fong, Senior Local Officer representing the TUT/SU Centre based in Penang.
The visit aimed to explore potential collaborative opportunities in the water and energy sectors, in line with the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between USM and Shinshu University. The engagement reflects a shared commitment to further develop joint research initiatives in Malaysia, particularly in sustainable water treatment technologies, advanced materials for energy systems, and integrated environmental solutions.
The delegation was warmly received by the Deputy Dean (Research, Innovation & Industrial-Community Engagement) of the School of Chemical Engineering, Associate Professor Dr. Vel Murugan Vadivelu, who began the session with an overview of the School’s academic programmes, research strengths, laboratory facilities, and ongoing initiatives. The introduction highlighted the School’s expertise in process engineering, sustainable technologies, and interdisciplinary research aligned with global environmental challenges.
Professor Dr. Katsuya Teshima subsequently introduced Shinshu University and elaborated on the current research activities of the Institute of Aqua Regeneration. His presentation emphasised advanced materials research, water purification technologies, and innovative approaches to addressing water scarcity and environmental sustainability.
Representatives from the School of Chemical Engineering then engaged in a focused discussion with the Japanese delegation to identify potential areas for collaboration. The dialogue explored possibilities including; joint research projects in water and energy technologies, collaborative grant applications, academic exchange and mobility programmes, co-supervision of postgraduate students, joint publications and knowledge-sharing platforms.
The session underscored strong complementarities between both institutions, particularly in advancing applied research with industrial and societal impact.
Before concluding the visit, Professor Dr. Katsuya Teshima and Professor Dr. Daisuke Mizusawa toured the School’s teaching laboratories; Process Control Laboratory and Unit Operation Laboratory. The laboratory visit provided insights into the School’s teaching infrastructure and hands-on training facilities that support undergraduate and postgraduate education in chemical engineering.
The visit concluded on a positive note, with both institutions expressing optimism about translating the discussions into concrete collaborative outcomes. The School of Chemical Engineering looks forward to strengthening its partnership with Shinshu University and expanding impactful research initiatives in water and energy technologies.
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Text by : ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. MOHAMAD HEKARL UZIR
Photo by : MRO