#Okayama University #Education System #Job Share

Okayama University's Job Share Initiative in Bangkok: Advancing International Engagement

In a bold move to enhance the international exposure of its staff, Okayama University (located in Okayama City, Japan) has introduced the innovative Job Share system starting in August 2025. This initiative is aimed at administrative staff and focuses on cultivating their skills through diverse experiences across departments. The core idea is to foster knowledge workers equipped with flexibility and broad perspectives, aligning with the university's mission to strengthen its stance as a research university with unique regional characteristics under the J-PEAKS initiative.

Following previous activities in Laos and Cambodia, two young staff members from the academic and research departments were guided by senior professionals from the international division, participating in activities in Bangkok from November 18 to 21, 2025. Their agenda included courtesy visits to partner institutions, such as King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi and Kasetsart University, where they presented Okayama University's efforts during study abroad informational sessions. They engaged in discussions with faculty and students about current study abroad systems and potential collaborations.

The visits also included meetings with representatives from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), Kyoto University ASEAN Center, and the ASEAN University Network (AUN). These exchanges provided insights into the situation of Thai students studying in Japan and the challenges these organizations face, prompting a reflection on the strengths and areas for improvement in Okayama University's approach to international engagement.

Furthermore, at the overseas study fair, the university's unique educational offerings, research capabilities, English programs, scholarship opportunities, and admission processes were showcased to over 100 attendees, including high-achieving high school and university students, their parents, and teachers. By engaging personally with the visitors, faculty members demonstrated the university's supportive environment for international students, garnering interest with phrases like, “I would love to study at Okayama University.”

The participation in this international endeavor helped staff members broaden their international perspectives while acquiring invaluable hands-on experience that isn’t typically available in their usual administrative roles. It allowed them to make connections between their professional duties and the university's global outreach, promoting insights for future operational enhancements and skill growth. Collaborative efforts across different departments not only strengthened internal ties but also emphasized the importance of presenting Okayama University's appeal to international audiences.

Okayama University plans to scrutinize responses and needs from local students gathered during this international training in Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand. By sharing and communalizing these insights through discussions, the university aims to elevate both the internationalization of its staff and the collaborative efforts within the institution. This is a significant step forward in enhancing education, research, and international exchange.

The university encourages ongoing engagement with community-centered, distinct research initiatives. With the establishment of the Job Share system, the university is poised to further its mission as a leader in global education and research.

Comments from Participants

Participants expressed that their activities in Thailand enabled them to gather valuable feedback directly from students and faculty considering studying in Japan. Being in a foreign environment allowed staff to focus on the