On September 22 and 23, a delegation of 16 architecture, civil engineering, and design students and 3 faculty members from the HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Germany, one of our partner universities, visited our Umeda and Omiya campuses to explore potential academic exchange between the two esteemed institutions. This visit, grounded in mutual recognition of the research and educational excellence both universities uphold, marks a significant step towards forging stronger ties.

**OIT Umeda Campus: At the Forefront of Collaborative Research**
The inaugural day commenced at OIT Umeda Campus, where HAWK University faculty and students expressed profound interest in the interior design program of the Department of Architecture and Design, observed the PBL class of Prof. Nishio and Associate Prof. Yamamoto, conducted in collaboration with industry and academia, and listened intently as the students explained their works. They also engaged in lively discussions with the participating designers of SPACE Inc. and OIT faculty members, recognizing the post-COVID-19 environmental changes in interior architecture, as well as the similarities and differences between Japan and Germany.
During the program, a campus tour conducted by Prof. Fukuhara and her student showcased the educational and research facilities of OIT Umeda Campus. Facilities such as the Department of Design and Architecture, Design Studio, Innovation Lab, Robotics & Design Center, Library, Learning Commons, Josho Hall, and the campus restaurant were presented in full, highlighting the utilization of cutting-edge technologies.

**OIT Omiya Campus: Hub of Technology and Creativity**
The second day unfolded at OIT Omiya Campus. The Grand Jury was an excellent demonstration of the exceptional educational activities of the Department of Architecture. The practical visit of the department's educational and research facilities led by Vice President Professor Okayama provided comprehensive insight into how the state-of-the-art facilities are utilized in hands-on education. During the tea break, Professor Teraji, who had supervised an exchange student from HAWK University, and OIT students also exchanged opinions.
A campus tour followed, during which participants visited the newly built state-of-the-art library, the Monolab, the Mech Lab, and other facilities integrating cutting-edge technologies and student projects. In addition, Prof. Mikata introduced the educational facilities and research of the Department of Civil Engineering and Urban Design, and the visitors of HAWK University listened to his explanation with great interest.

At the end of the first day, there was a reception for 31 people, including faculty, staff, and students of OIT. This two-day fervent exchange and knowledge sharing have significantly fortified the collaborative relationship between both universities, laying a valuable foundation for future collaboration in education and research. Moving forward, both institutions are poised to drive joint international workshops, pushing the boundaries of knowledge creation.