The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and Nago City signed a comprehensive partnership agreement on September 10, 2026. The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration between the two organizations by leveraging their respective human, intellectual, and physical resources, as well as research achievements, to contribute to the further development of the local community and the creation of a sustainable future.
Under the agreement, OIST and Nago City, the central hub of northern Okinawa, will work together across a broad range of areas, including regional development, education and human resource development, and the promotion of academic research and innovation. Through enhanced cooperation, collaboration, and exchange, the two parties seek to create lasting benefits for the region.
OIST is committed to advancing world-class research and education while contributing to the sustainable development of Okinawa through its research achievements, scientific expertise, diverse talent, and global networks. Building on this new partnership, OIST and Nago City will further strengthen their collaboration and explore initiatives aimed at addressing regional challenges and creating new value for the community.
Key Areas of Collaboration
The agreement covers the following areas of cooperation:
- Regional collaboration and regional development
- Education and human resource development
- Promotion of academic research and innovation
- Industry-academia-government collaboration and the resolution of regional challenges
- Environmental conservation and sustainable community development
- Other matters necessary to achieve the purpose of this Agreement
Comments from Representatives
At the signing ceremony, Mayor Taketoyo Toguchi of Nago City said:
"The signing of this comprehensive partnership agreement is a tremendous milestone and a great source of pride for Nago City. By combining OIST's cutting-edge expertise with the rich resources of our local community, we aim to expand the scope of our collaboration across a wide range of areas, including academic research, solutions to regional challenges, and environmental conservation. Furthermore, this partnership will extend beyond cooperation between the municipal government and educational institutions, bringing together the strengths of industry, academia, and government, including local businesses, to create meaningful and lasting benefits for our region."
In his remarks delivered on behalf of OIST Interim President Daniel Zajfman, Gil Granot-Mayer, Executive Vice President for Innovation and Outreach, expressed his expectations for strengthening future collaboration between the two parties, stating:
"OIST is committed to further strengthening its contribution to Okinawa. We look forward to working closely with Nago City, educational institutions, businesses, and the local community to build a sustainable and prosperous future together."
