On 26 March 2019, Osaka City University (OCU) concluded a partnership agreement with Osaka Prefectural Housing Corporation (OPH) which engages in business such as providing rental houses, etc. in Osaka prefecture for the purposes of ensuring international students' safe/comfortable living environment and contributing to the local community. The agreement was signed by OCU President Arakawa and OPH Chairman Tsutsumi.

From October 2019 the housing complex “OPH Sugimoto-cho”, located within walking distance of OCU, will be provided to international students as well as Japanese students as a share room. That will make the living environment for possible increasing international students improve and the first step to create a coexistence place with the Japanese students. Physically or mentally challenged persons as well are working in the “Minna Shokudo or Everyone’s Dining Room” located on the 1st floor of the OPH Sugimoto-cho, operated by NPO, and it is expected as an exchange place for students and residents.

After the signing ceremony participants tasted food at the “Minna Shokudo” and promised to deepen their future relationship.