When you think of Belgium, what comes to mind? Delicious waffles and chocolate, or perhaps a political hub at the heart of the European Union, home to the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Council? We are delighted to welcome the Ambassador of Belgium to Japan to Tohoku University. This is a special opportunity to speak with him directly and experience a bit of Belgium right here on campus! On Tuesday, June 2 we will hold “Belgium Day”, an event where you can learn about and get acquainted with Belgium. 2026 marks 160 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Belgium. This event is designed to introduce a new generation of students to Belgian culture and society. The day will feature talks from embassy officials on science and technology policy, as well as a lecture from Executive Vice President Toshiya Ueki on the untold history of exchange between Belgium and Japan. In addition, a networking session is planned so attendees can speak face-to-face with the ambassador. We have lots more planned for the day, including a booth at the venue with information about studying abroad. Whether from the humanities or the sciences, everyone interested in Belgium, international exchange, and studying abroad are more than welcome. No prior knowledge is needed at all. We look forward to seeing you there! We will continue to post updates as the event approaches. [Thank You] "Belgium Day" Concluded Successfully The "Belgium Day" event, held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to celebrate the 160th anniversary of friendship between Japan and Belgium, concluded with great success. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the many students, faculty, and staff members who joined us for the lunchtime "Belgium Booth" and the afternoon lectures and networking sessions at the Main Library. We hope this event provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone to deepen their understanding of Belgian culture, study abroad opportunities, and science and technology. Thank you very much for your participation!
＜Update History / What’s New＞
June 2, 2026 (Tue): Information about today’s “Lunchtime Event” has been added.
May 29, 2026 (Fri)：”Admission Fee: Free” section has been added.
The lecture content and target audience have been updated.
May 28, 2026 (Thur)：”Feel free to come and go” has been added to the “Registration” section.
May 26, 2026 (Tue)：The title for Lecture 1 has been confirmed.
A profile photo of Mr. Olivier Douhéret, the speaker for Lecture 1, is now available.
May 22, 2026 (Fri)：The event programme (agenda) has been posted.
Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Time: 16:30-19:00
【Lunchtime Event】The “Belgium Booth” is coming to Kawauchi Welfare Facilities!
A “Belgium Booth” will be set up on the 1st floor of Kawauchi Welfare Facilities today, Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 12:00 to 13:00.
Representatives from the Embassy of Belgium will be distributing information brochures and authentic Belgian waffles, so please feel free to drop by!
【The programme for the day】
- 16:30～16:45 Opening Remarks H.E. Mr. Antoine Evrard
(Ambassador of Belgium to Japan) - 16:45～17:15 Lecture 1: “Science policy and funding in Belgium and opportunities for collaborative research”
Mr. Olivier Douhéret (Head of the Scientific and Academic Department, Wallonia-Brussels International (WBI), French Community of Belgium / Embassy of Belgium)
This session provides an overview of Belgium’s science and technology policy, while introducing opportunities for collaborative research and funding frameworks between Japan and Belgium.
*Who is this for?: Tohoku University students interested in research study abroad in Belgium, and faculty/staff members who wish to conduct collaborative research with Belgian institutions.
(All majors are welcome to join if you are interested in the science policy of Belgium, the gateway to Europe!)
- 17:15～17:45 Lecture 2: “160 Years of Japan and Belgium: The Unknown History of Exchange”
In this lecture, we will introduce episodes of the “unknown history” and deep bonds between Japan and Belgium that you likely wouldn’t find just by searching the internet. After listening, you are sure to feel a closer connection to the faraway country of Belgium.
*Who is this for?: Students and faculty/staff members who want to know more about Belgium (Those interested in European history or international exchange are more than welcome!)
Prof. Toshiya Ueki (Executive Vice President, Tohoku University) - 17:45～18:00 Break (Preparation for screening)
- 18:00～18:30 Screening of a Short Video Introducing Belgium and information session for life in Belgium, studying abroad in Belgium and Belgian culture
The life and appeal of Belgium will be introduced using dynamic videos and images.
If you have any curiosities, you can ask questions directly to the Ambassador and the Deputy Head of Mission & Minister-Counsellor. - 18:30～19:00 Networking Session (An opportunity for attendees to speak directly with the Ambassador and Embassy officials!)
- Please note that the programme is subject to change without prior notice. Thank you for your understanding.
- Complimentary Belgian waffles will be distributed, courtesy of the Embassy of Belgium!(Please note that quantities are limited, and they will be available while supplies last.)
Venue: Tohoku University Main Library 1F Multipurpose Room, Kawauchi Campus
Target: Tohoku University students (undergraduate and graduate), teaching staff
Language: Japanese and English (presentations in English will be accompanied by Japanese interpretation)
Registration: No registration necessary, come as you are on the day! Feel free to come and go.
Admission Fee: Free
Contact: Global Strategy Office
TEL: 022-217-6311
Email: kokusai-c*grp.tohoku.ac.jp (please replace * with @)