Japanese Ambassador explores cutting-edge 6G research at the University of Oulu
During the visit, Vice Rector Taina Pihlajaniemi highlighted the global reach of Oulu’s technological advancements. “Innovations that stem from Oulu, our little city, are used by more than three billion people every day,” she noted, emphasising the University’s influence beyond Finland. “This is a testimony of our global handprint.”
“Your university has made such a big impact on the transformation of this region,” Ambassador Okada remarked, acknowledging the University’s role in fostering innovation and regional development
Advancing 6G research together
Esa Posio, Programme Manager of the 6G Flagship, brought forward the ambitious scale of the University’s 6G research initiative, which commands nearly 300 million euros in funding. “Our vision is for digital society in 2030 to be technically data-driven with almost instant wireless connectivity,” Posio explained. He noted that 6G Flagship’s authoritative white papers have become reference points within the global telecommunications community, cementing Oulu’s reputation as a pioneer in shaping the future of wireless technology.
The University of Oulu maintains active research partnerships with three major Japanese institutions – Tokyo, Nagoya and Kyoto universities. According to Posio, these collaborations have produced tangible results. Professor Akihiro Nakao from Tokyo has been appointed as the first guest professor at Oulu’s IT and Electrical Engineering Faculty, while 6G Flagship Director Matti Latva-aho holds a Global Fellow position at Tokyo University. This expert exchange supports Finland’s position in international 6G development.
Exploring resilient and secure communication
Dean Jukka Riekki of the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering elaborated on the University’s research themes, including resilient and secure communication networks. “A rapidly emerging and increasingly significant topic is resilience in 6G — how to continue communication even when national networks are down,” he emphasised. Riekki also highlighted the strategic importance of developing domestic AI capabilities, noting, “We’re focusing on building local AI solutions to enhance technological sovereignty and ensure service continuity regardless of external factors.”
NATO DIANA and defence collaboration
The visit also featured a presentation on the 6G Test Centre’s role within the NATO DIANA program, which focuses on dual-use technologies. “Only one NATO DIANA test centre is on 6G, and it’s here at the University of Oulu,” explained Marko E. Leinonen, Research Director at 6G Flagship, emphasising the strategic importance of Oulu’s test centre in global defence communications.
Ambassador Okada expressed keen interest in potential collaborations, particularly in the area of ICT for defence. “Japan is looking at the possibility of collaborating with Finnish companies or institutions in the area of ICT, which can be useful,” he noted, signifying a promising avenue for future cooperation. “The University of Tokyo is very serious about making the collaboration more visible and increasing the exchange between Japan and Finland,” Ambassador Okada observed, highlighting the strategic intent to deepen academic and cultural ties.
Strengthening ties and future prospects
The visit concluded with a discussion on enhancing exchange programs and collaborative research initiatives between Japan and the University of Oulu. Ambassador Okada’s visit reinforced the mutual interest in driving technological advancements and nurturing international partnerships in cutting-edge fields like 6G, AI, and secure communication networks.
The 6G Flagship programme anticipates continued collaboration with Japanese research institutions, contributing to the global advancement of next-generation wireless technology through shared expertise and innovation.