Kyoto University President Prof. Nagahiro Minato visited Heidelberg University and the European Center (September 20)

Kyoto University President Prof. Nagahiro Minato visited Heidelberg University to wish Rector Prof. Berndhard Eitel farewell. 

The visit consisted of a tour through Heidelberg and the university guided by Rector Eitel. Both presidents held a private meeting while the German and Japanese international department staffs talked about their organizations and discussed challenges. The visit was concluded with an exchange of gifts and a joint lunch. 

Prof. Eitel served as head of Heidelberg University for 16 years. In this time, he strongly argued for a closer relationship between the Japan and Germany and worked towards substantial academic exchange. Prof. Eitel also played a significant role in the foundation of HeKKSaGOn Alliance. For this and other contributions he received The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star awarded by the Japanese government.

Rector Eitel’s relation to Kyoto University was a special one. He had at times cordial relationships with its presidents Hiroshi Matsumoto, Juichi Yamagiwa and of course Prof. Nagahiro Minato.