News

The city of Sendai operated a special counter for foreign residents moving to Aoba Ward from outside Japan from September 25th to October 4th, 2024, over eight weekdays. Approximately 380 people, primarily international students set to enter Tohoku University this fall, visited the special counter at Aoba Ward Office.

Tohoku University collaborated in the operation of the special counter by establishing a pre-registration desk exclusively for the university's international students and dispatching staff to assist with general inquiries at the venue. In cooperation with Sendai City, a "Welcome Corner" was also set up, distributing various materials useful for student life, such as newsletters.

With the expected increase in foreign residents moving to Sendai—driven by factors like Tohoku University's upcoming certification as a University for International Research Excellence—the special counter introduced a trial system to allow online reservations for visit dates and times, and advance entry of notification information. This system helped avoid overcrowding, reduce wait times, and minimize the need to fill out notification documents by hand.

In addition, various digital translation tools were employed to ensure smooth communication with international visitors.

In February, the university agreed to further strengthen its partnership with the city of Sendai, considering its status as a candidate for University for International Research Excellence. Through initiatives such as sharing expertise in supporting foreign residents, the university aims to contribute to making Sendai a more welcoming and livable city for international visitors.