23 January 2026, Nagasaki, Japan: A high-level event was held today to announce the Letter of Intent (LOI) signed between UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, and the School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health at Nagasaki University. Building upon the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the parties on December 16, 2024, this partnership establishes a formal framework for cooperation aimed at enhancing development efforts through shared expertise in global health.

It facilitates a long-term collaboration focused on the advancement of the sustainable development agenda with a specific focus on promoting maternal health, sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and data-driven development.

The partnership is critical for UNFPA in realizing its vision to deliver a world where every woman and young person is empowered with the knowledge and skills to safeguard their well-being.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Masahiro HASHIZUME, Dean of the School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, ‘’Today’s ceremony reaffirms our shared commitment and mutual trust as we embark on a long-term partnership dedicated to advancing global health through education, research, and collaborative action’’.

“This strategic collaboration with Nagasaki University enables UNFPA to expand access to essential research and training, particularly in the areas of maternal health and population dynamics,” said Mr. Koffi KOUAME, UNFPA Country Representative. “These efforts will significantly contribute to changing women’s and girls’ lives by improving their health and wellbeing.”

This strategic collaboration intends to encompass education, training, and research opportunities. Furthermore, the partnership creates a dedicated pathway for students through a fellowship programme within the UNFPA Ethiopia Country Office.

This MOU is valid for an initial period of five years, with both institutions committed to regular consultations to review progress and plan future joint activities.

For further information, please contact:

・Akiyo Nonogaki, Programme Specialist, UNFPA Ethiopia;

E-mail: nonogaki@unfpa.org

・Paula Fernández Seijo, Communication Specialist, UNFPA Ethiopia;

E-mail: pfernandez@unfpa.org

・Miho Sato, Associate Professor, School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University

E-mail: mihos@nagasaki-u.ac.jp