Chiba Institute of Technology Signs MoUs to Boost Space Collaboration and Academic Exchange

News & Event 2025/01/22

Chiba Institute of Technology Strengthens Partnerships in Bhutan Through Landmark MoUs

Thimphu, Bhutan — December 18, 2024

The Chiba Institute of Technology (CIT) has signed two transformative Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Bhutanese partners, advancing its commitment to fostering technological innovation and educational collaboration.

The first MoU, signed with Bhutan's Government Technology Agency (GovTech) on September 30, 2024 focuses on advancing satellite research and capacity building. The second MoU, signed with the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), establishes CIT’s physical presence in Bhutan to deepen cooperation on ongoing projects, including the satellite initiative and academic exchange programs.

Satellite Collaboration with GovTech

The MoU with GovTech marks a significant milestone in Bhutan’s ambitions to build a national space sector. Under this agreement, students from the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) will design, develop, and assemble a payload under the guidance of GovTech's space engineers. The payload will then be integrated into a satellite bus developed by CIT students under the CIT-Gardens initiative, which has already achieved two successful satellite deployments.

“This partnership represents a new chapter for the CIT-Bhutan relationship and an exciting opportunity for our students,” said Joi Ito, President of CIT. “Through this collaboration, we hope to equip the next generation of engineers with the global perspective necessary to contribute to the rapidly evolving technology sector.”

The Secretary of GovTech, Jigme Tenzing, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “This collaboration will expand Bhutan’s educational capacity for meeting His Majesty’s vision of using space to inspire the youth and harness the benefits of space for the people of Bhutan.”

GovTech Secretary Jigme Tenzing and CIT President Joichi Ito signing the satellite collaboration MoU

Establishing CIT’s Physical Presence in Bhutan

Building on the momentum of the satellite collaboration, the second MoU signed in December 2024 with GMC marks a pivotal step in institutionalizing CIT’s commitment to Bhutan. The agreement facilitates the establishment of a CIT office in Bhutan, which will support activities such as academic exchange programs and satellite development initiatives. The office will also serve as a hub for in-person collaboration, enhancing the effectiveness of joint projects.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with GMC through this initiative,” said Setokuma Osamu, Chairman of CIT. “By setting up an office in Bhutan, we can work more closely to advance our shared goals in technology and education while strengthening cultural ties between our institutions.”

Governor Dr. Lotay Tshering of GMC highlighted the broader impact of the MoU: “This extended partnership with CIT represents a significant step in advancing Bhutan’s technology and innovation sector. By welcoming CIT to our shores, we are paving the way for innovative projects aligned with our sustainable development goals and inspiring the next generation of Bhutanese youth.”

Senior GMC and CIT officials after signing an MoU to establish a physical CIT presence in Bhutan in December. From left to right: GMC CEO Mun Leong Liew, GMC Governor Dr. Lotay Tshering, CIT chairman Setokuma Osamu, CIT Director of Corporate Affairs Fukue Satoshi.

A Natural Progression of Partnership

These agreements build on prior collaborations between CIT, GovTech, and DHI. An initial MoU signed in December 2023 between the three entities laid the foundation for cooperation in areas such as satellite development, digital infrastructure, and academic exchange. The establishment of a detailed satellite collaboration program and a physical presence in Bhutan signals a deepening of these partnerships, creating a platform for enhanced collaboration and the exchange of knowledge.

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