GSU-Japan 10th Anniversary Opening and GRAIN Launch

On 29 April 2026, GSU-Japan officially opened its 10th anniversary celebrations and launched the Global Research and Innovation Network (GRAIN) at the Institute of Science Tokyo. Guests from the Embassy of Ghana in Japan, academia, industry, community organisations and the Ghanaian diaspora came together for keynotes, an inspirational session, launch ceremonies, awards and networking.

GRAIN, an initiative crafted by the Jospong Group of Companies, connects Ghanaian students, researchers, professionals and industry across global networks to promote research collaboration, mentorship, entrepreneurship and knowledge exchange for Ghana's development.

• Launch GRAIN.
• Officially begin GSU-Japan's 10th anniversary activities.
• Strengthen engagement among Ghanaian students, researchers, professionals and institutions in Japan.
• Promote collaboration between academia, industry and diaspora stakeholders.
• Expand professional networking and mentorship opportunities.
• Increase the visibility of Ghanaian talent, research and innovation in Japan.

1. 09:30Arrival
2. 10:00Opening prayerSamuel Papa Kwesi Owusu, Organising Secretary
3. 10:05Welcome and introduction of guestsDr. Floret Maame Owusu, President
4. 10:10Event overviewDr. Floret Maame Owusu
5. 10:15Opening remarks (virtual)Ms. Devyani Kundu, Jospong Group
6. 10:22Keynote addressH.E. Mr. Francis Thalamus Doe
7. 10:30Inspirational sessionDr. Peter Owans
8. 11:10Official launch of GRAINMs. Caroline Awuye, Immediate Past President
9. 11:25Launch of the 10th anniversaryDr. Floret Owusu and Mr. Christopher Gaba
10. 11:35Awards and recognition
11. 11:40Partnership and support sessionMr. Nana Yaw Pop
12. 12:00Closing remarks and prayerH.E. Mr. Francis Thalamus Doe
13. 12:00Networking

• H.E. Mr. Francis Thalamus Doe

  Deputy Ambassador of Ghana to Japan and Acting Head of Mission

• Mr. Christopher Gaba

  Minister-Counsellor for Diaspora, Education and Culture

• Mr. Asamoa Manu

  First Secretary (Consular), Embassy of Ghana in Japan

• Prof. Samuel Amponsah

  President, Ghana Association in Japan

• Prof. Nishida Kei

  University of Yamanashi, ICRE

• Dr. Philemon Kumassah

  Department of Surgery, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital

• Dr. Peter Owans

  President and CEO, EdulinX Corporation

• Ms. Devyani Kundu

  Jospong Group of Companies

• Dr. Rebecca Yandam

  Jospong GRAIN Coordinator

• Mr. Shuichi Kondoh

  YOA Africa Corporation

• Mr. Christopher Appaw

  CEO, Chris Language Academy

• Ms. Hotta Yoshiko

  CEO, Akwaaba Nippon Japanese Language School

• Mr. Nana Yaw Pop

  CEO, JAfriQ Radio

• Mr. David Kpondehou

  President and Founder, Africa Diaspora Network Japan

• Mr. Omanbapa Bibini

  Organising Secretary, Ghana Association in Chiba

GRAIN was officially launched, the GSU-Japan 10th anniversary logo was unveiled, and awards and citations recognised people who have contributed to the union. Dr. Peter Owans led an inspirational session on leadership, professional growth and opportunities for Ghanaian students in Japan.

• GRAIN officially launched and the 10th anniversary year begun.
• Stronger links between students, alumni, researchers, professionals and community stakeholders.
• Greater visibility for GSU-Japan within the Ghanaian diaspora in Japan.
• New interest in partnerships, sponsorships and joint initiatives.

Future collaboration areas include research partnerships, industry and academia engagement, mentorship and career programmes, innovation and entrepreneurship, and joint symposiums and workshops.