Today, Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences and Uda City in Japan signed a Memorandum of Understanding, agreeing the launch of an English-language robotics curriculum at the Clevon Academy in Viljandi, and to work on the establishment of a Clevon Academy for Robotic Studies in Uda City, Japan.

Clevon Academy’s new English-language robotics curriculum looks forward to welcoming 20 Japanese students in September 2025. In collaboration with Uda City, the plan includes opening a Robotics Studies in Japan to accommodate more robotics enthusiasts.

"The teaching will proceed as usual – in classrooms and practical labs, but instead of Estonian, English will be the primary language. We'll start with basic hobby electronics programming and culminate in the development of an actual autonomous vehicle," shared Laido Valdvee, the practice coordinator of Clevon Academy.

"International cooperation is a key accelerator for Estonia's economic growth," commented Andrus Pedai, Rector of Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences. "Clevon Academy is a successful example of how to attract foreign talent to Estonia, and export our high-level of education to the world," added Pedai. "I am delighted that together with Uda City, we can start offering robotics education in Japan."

According to Uda City Mayor Kazutoshi Kongo, this initiative is more than just launching a new curriculum or school. "Bringing Clevon Academy to our city is not just an investment in education; it's an investment in the future. Our youth will gain the necessary experiences and knowledge to contribute to society and drive it forward," stated the mayor.

In collaboration between Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences and Clevon, Clevon Academy offers applied higher education in robotics software development in Viljandi. It's a unique workplace-based learning program supported by the Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences, industry experts, and top specialists from the company. Clevon Academy received the Estonian Education Deed of the Year award in 2020.

Graduates receive a bachelor of science (BSc) degree. The academy's first cohort graduated 14 students, seven of whom have joined AS Clevon. 

Photo: Kiur Kaasik / sTARTUp Day