Overview
SUDP is a short-term international exchange program primarily organized by the Environment Unit and the Public Health Unit. Participants are international students from member universities of the Academic Consortium (IACSC) and students from Yokohama City University. The host location rotates annually among IACSC member universities, to learn about the host country's regional history, culture, environment, and social factors and understand and discuss complex local issues. The program is conducted in English, with students spending about a week together participating in lectures, fieldwork, and group work.In the lectures, students primarily learn from the host university about the current state of urban challenges in the local area and measures to address these, in line with each year's theme. Through fieldwork, students deepen their understanding of the theme by visiting relevant sites. In group work, students engage in discussions with peers from different countries to propose sustainable development solutions related to the theme. Through group work and fieldwork, students develop problem-solving skills and teamwork. This program serves not only as an academic opportunity but also as a platform for international exchange among students. It provides a chance for students with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to understand each other's cultures and build international relationships. On the final day, students present their research results either orally or as a poster at the IACSC International Symposium. This provides a valuable opportunity for students to present research findings in English while still in their student years.