In the face of complex and interdependent global challenges, the need for inclusive and pragmatic approaches to sustainable development has become ever more pressing. Across Africa, urgent social issues—from inadequate access to education and basic infrastructure, to the consequences of rapid urbanization and climate vulnerability—require not only strategic public-sector planning but also the efficient implementation capacity and innovation of the private sector. While governments are responsible for setting the grand design for addressing social challenges, the private sector is often best positioned to deliver scalable and cost-effective solutions. The ideal model is one in which public and private actors in both Africa and Japan collaborate to co-create solutions. Yet, significant geographic, institutional, and informational distances remain. Japanese companies, though increasingly aware of the growing importance of African markets, often lack a clear understanding of what specific social problems exist, what business models might effectively address them, what barriers to implementation may arise, and how those barriers can be overcome. Conversely, African institutions may face difficulties in identifying, engaging, or aligning with appropriate foreign partners to implement context-sensitive solutions. Universities, with their capacity for interdisciplinary knowledge production, local and global networks, and role as neutral conveners, are uniquely positioned to bridge these gaps. Through collaborative partnerships, African and Japanese universities can work together to bring public and private stakeholders into dialogue, co-produce policy-relevant knowledge, and foster ecosystems for innovation that address real-world challenges. This event explores how university-based collaboration between Africa and Asia can catalyze public-private cooperation in solving social issues. It aims to identify actionable strategies to narrow the distance between distant stakeholders, enhance mutual understanding, and accelerate inclusive development through knowledge-driven partnerships.