A delegation from the Università per Stranieri di Perugia, composed of the Rector Valerio De Cesaris, the Rector’s Delegate for Peace Policies Professor Angela Sagnella, and Rie Inouchi, Japanese Language Lecturer, is on an institutional mission in Japan to strengthen scientific, cultural, and academic cooperation with partner universities.
The mission began in Hiroshima, on the occasion of the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing. On 6 August, the delegation attended the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony, together with the highest Japanese 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: an opportunity to reaffirm that the building of peace is also achieved through scientific research, cooperation, and the universal right to health.
Among the key events was the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference at Hiroshima University, which brought together rectors and international academic representatives to reflect on the role of universities in building peace.
In his address, Rector Valerio De Cesaris highlighted the value of culture, education, and cultural diplomacy as tools to overcome the logic of war and to learn to regard others not as threats but as counterparts. Citing Maria Montessori, who has deep ties to the history of the University, he reminded the audience that “peace is built through education.”
The mission will continue in Nagasaki, where the delegation will participate in the commemorations of 9 August and hold 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.