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Learning Design January-February 2026 Issue Released

The Management Center of Japan Management Association (JMAM), led by President Zhang Shiluo, is excited to announce the online release of the January-February 2026 issue of its specialized human resource development magazine, Learning Design. Starting January 9, 2026, this issue is accessible on the Learning Design Members site, aimed at HR professionals.

Special Feature: HR Trend Keywords 2026

This year’s special feature focuses on the annual tradition of presenting key HR terms for the new year, which is themed around 2026 HR Trend Keywords. Within three major categories: Management, Engagement, and Business Skills, we introduce a total of eight keywords essential for navigating the evolving HR landscape. It is anticipated that 2026 will witness intense competition for talent acquisition. Thus, reflecting on what organizations and employees need to thrive, we encourage HR leaders to embrace and utilize these insights.

In this edition, we are pleased to offer a two-month limited full release of Mental Capital Management and Quiet Retention from the HR Trend Keywords feature. Feel free to explore them through the links provided below:

• - Mental Capital Management - Nobuichi Tanaka, Director and Chief Happiness Officer at Toridoll Holdings
• - Quiet Retention - Seito Furuya, Principal Researcher at Recruit Works Institute

New Horizons in HR

This January-February issue also marks the beginning of a thought-provoking series titled Reconsidering HR by Tomoyuki Shimanuki, Professor at Chuo University’s Graduate School of Strategic Management. This series will span four installments, focusing on crucial elements of human capital management. The first installment addresses Diversity Strategies in Human Capital Management, providing valuable perspectives for those involved in HR and talent development.

Insights from Leaders

• - My Leadership Philosophy features an interview with Hiroaki Deguchi, Honorary Professor and Special Advisor at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University. Deguchi, recognized as a profound thinker and founder of Lifenet Insurance, shares his reflections and discusses the essential qualities of leaders needed to navigate Japan's future challenges.
• - Living Authentically highlights Takeshi Honda, a professional figure skater and sports commentator, who reflects on his 20 years of experience since turning professional. Honda emphasizes his belief in taking risks rather than opting for inaction, striving to broaden the reach of figure skating in Japan.

Engaging Discussions

In our ongoing series, The Way of Professional Mentorship, Jun Nakahara, a professor at Rikkyo University, interviews Yohei Sadojima, CEO of Cork, about his work as an editor and the skills necessary to bring out the best in writers. Each series installment aims to explore the personal journeys and insights of notable figures who have shaped various industries.

Meanwhile, HR Philosophy continues with its third installation on Zen (The Ten Bulls), offering a philosophical framework for infusing life into HR practices.

Commitment to Diversity

Maho Nishioka from Shimizu Corporation leads the charge in promoting gender diversity in the traditionally male-dominated construction industry. Under her guidance, Shimizu has already achieved a 5.6% representation of women in managerial roles ahead of national targets set for 2029. Nishioka shares her journey from a technical role to championing DE&I initiatives.

Access to Learning Design

The January-February 2026 issue of Learning Design is now available for reading on the Learning Design Members site. For a complete overview of the issue, please visit our table of contents page. Stay updated and engaged in the ever-evolving field of human resource development through our insightful articles and series.

About JMAM

JMAM was established as a separate entity from the Japan Management Association (JMA) in 1991. With a mission to provide useful information to support the growth of individuals and organizations, JMAM encompasses various aspects of educational design and talent development. Our tagline is, “Supporting Growth Together.” Join us in fostering a nurturing environment for personal development and organizational success.