The Center for Photonics Sciences at the University of Eastern Finland and Akita Prefecture in Japan are entering into a partnership that will bring together North Karelia’s expertise in photonics and Akita Prefecture’s expertise in robotics and technology. The partnership aims to develop new technological solutions and promote research collaboration and cooperation between companies.
The partnership will be formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding, which will be signed in Joensuu on 20 October by Kenta Suzuki, Governor of Akita Prefecture, and Professor Kari Lehtinen, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology at the University of Eastern Finland.
The partnership seeks to combine the University of Eastern Finland’s expertise in optical measurement technology and imaging with Akita Prefecture’s expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence and industry. Potential applications include agricultural automation, product quality measurement and the development of new measurement and manufacturing technologies.
“We see significant potential in working with Akita Prefecture to combine photonics, robotics and artificial intelligence to create new practical applications,” says Professor Jyrki Saarinen, Director of the Center for Photonics Sciences.
Partnership creates new opportunities for research and business
The five-year partnership aims to promote joint research and development projects between the Center for Photonics Sciences and Akita Prefecture, cooperation between researchers and companies and the adoption of new technologies. Practical forms of collaboration include sharing research knowledge, building links between companies and joint events and development projects.
The Memorandum of Understanding complements the economic cooperation agreement concluded between Akita Prefecture and the Region of North Karelia in November 2025.
Kenta Suzuki, Governor of Akita Prefecture, will visit North Karelia on 19–20 October as part of his official visit to Finland. During the visit, the delegation will explore the region’s research and business activities and learn about photonics research at the University of Eastern Finland.
