The Network for Education and Research on Peace and Sustainability (NERPS), established by Hiroshima University in 2018 as an international platform for advancing research, dialogue and collaboration on peaceful and sustainable societies, convened its 5th annual conference at the United Nations University Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, from 4–7 March 2026. Co-hosted by Hiroshima University and the United Nations University under the theme “Harnessing Technologies for Strengthening Multilateralism on Peace and Sustainability”, the conference brought together students, researchers and practitioners to examine how technological innovation can support cooperation, peacebuilding and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals in a world facing conflict, climate change and widening inequalities.

Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala (left photo), Rector of the United Nations University-giving welcome remarks at the NERPS 2026 Conference reception while best presenting graduate students (right photo) pose for a photo with the conference chairs and partners

Uwezo Uganda was privileged to contribute to supporting graduate students and participate in the conference, represented by the Executive Director, Dr Mary Goretti Nakabugo. Among the key highlights were the opening session led by Conference Chairs, Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University, and Prof. Shinji Kaneko, Executive Vice President for Global Initiatives and Director of NERPS at Hiroshima University; keynote addresses by Dr Måns Nilsson, Executive Director of the Stockholm Environment Institute, and Ms Rumiko Seya, President of Reach Alternatives (REALs); and a rich programme of research presentations, expert roundtables and workshops. Uwezo Uganda particularly commends NERPS for deliberately creating space for graduate students and other emerging scholars to present and engage, helping to strengthen the next generation of leadership on peace, sustainability and education. Please visit https://nerps.org/nerps-2026-japan/ to learn more about NERPS and the 2026 conference.

Dr Mary Goretti Nakabugo (extreme left) with the conference chairs; Prof Shinji Kaneko and Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala  (in the middle) at the NERPS 2026 Conference