This January a representative of the Centre for Asian Studies dr. Linas Didvalis visited the University of Leeds. The goal of the visit was to learn about the structure of East Asian study programs, to discus research activities, and possibility to start student exchanges. Dr. Didvalis met staff representatives from the School of Politics and International Studies, the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, and the School of Sociology and Social Policy. In addition of valuable exchange of experience and good practices, the visit resulted in agreement to start arranging academic staff and student exchange between the two universities in the field of East Asia region studies.

The University of Leeds is one of the key universities working with East Asian studies in the UK. Traditionally, the main focus area has been synology that started already in the 1960s. Later, Japanese studies and most recently Korean studies were added. The university offers interdisciplinary East Asia region study programs both for BA and MA students.

The visit was based on ERASMUS+ Staff Training program.