#Japan #Tokyo #Symposium #Musashino Art #Future Learning

MANABI DESIGN SYMPOSIUM 2026

The Musashino Art University is set to host the MANABI DESIGN SYMPOSIUM 2026, focusing on the future possibilities of learning and education. The symposium aims to explore what education should look like in response to the evolving needs of society.

Since the 2023 academic year, the university has been actively participating in various initiatives, including the Cabinet Office's Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) and the COI-NEXT program led by Hokkaido University. These efforts center around cultivating creativity in learning, along with conducting research focused on the youth demographic. The upcoming 2025 academic year will see the university being recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology for creating innovative learning programs aimed at working adults. Additionally, the initiative will foster collaborative research between companies and universities, as well as develop educational programs that support high school students' exploratory activities from the unique perspective of an art institution.

As part of the symposium, we are privileged to welcome Yuri Mima, a renowned professor at the Hakodate Future University. Mima has dedicated years to research and practical application in educational technology and learning sciences. Her focus is on understanding the environments best suited for learning. Attendees can expect insights into necessary learning paradigms for the upcoming era and practical tips for designing effective learning environments.

The symposium will not only feature keynote addresses but also share real-world examples where art and design students have utilized their personal experiences to innovate learning frameworks. Additionally, new adult education programs will be discussed, alongside the results of various surveys that explore the future potential of education.

Targeting a broad audience, the symposium aims to explore creativity in education spanning from children to young adults and working professionals. It is designed not just for educators but is an open venue for industry professionals, local government officials, students, and the general public.

Program Overview

Opening Session

Time: 14:00 - Introduction of 2025 Initiatives

Keynote Speaker

Time: 14:10 - 14:50
Speaker: Yuri Mima (Professor, Hakodate Future University)

Presentation Sessions

Note: Session titles may be subject to change.

Time: 14:55 - 15:15
1. Design Project for Art University Students
Presenters: Students from the Creative Innovation Program, Musashino Art University
Lead by: Atsushi Hasegawa (Head Professor, Creative Innovation Program)

Time: 15:20 - 15:40
2. Creativity Workshops for High School Exploratory Activities:
Presenters: Akiya Oka (Artist / Researcher, Musashino Art University), Misaki Saito (CONCENT)

Time: 15:50 - 16:05
3. Learning Design Project for Teacher Education Students:
Presenter: Sota Ise (Visiting Researcher, Musashino Art University)

Time: 16:10 - 16:25
4. Leadership Education Program for Executives:
Presenter: Nozomu Ogawa (Executive Officer, User Base Inc.)

Reflective Panel Discussion

Time: 16:30 - 17:30
Panelists: Yuri Mima, Nozomu Ogawa, Atsushi Hasegawa, among others
Moderator: Sota Ise

Networking Session

Time: 17:30 - 18:30

Guest Speaker Profile

Yuri Mima
Professor at Hakodate Future University, with degrees from Harvard Graduate School, Tokyo University, and the University of Electro-Communications. Mima has been instrumental in establishing the university and has served as the Vice Director of the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. With numerous awards and initiatives dedicated to community science communication, she is a recognized leader in educational reform and science literacy.

Event Details

• - Date: February 21, 2026, 14:00 - 17:30 (Doors open at 13:30)
• - Venue: Co-Creation Space -Ma-, Musashino Art University, 1-4 Ichigaya, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo
• - Access: 3 minutes' walk from Ichigaya Station on JR Chuo/Sobu Line, Yurikucho Line, and Shinjuku Line. Transport is encouraged for attendees.
• - Fee: 1,000 yen (Networking fee included)
• - Capacity: 50 attendees (First come, first served)
• - Organizer: Musashino Art University
• - Co-organizer: Center for Social Creativity, Musashino Art University

This symposium will closely align with developmental aid programs from the government's educational initiatives, supporting efforts into how education methods can shape a post-COVID world.

To register for participation, click here.

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About Musashino Art University
Celebrating its centenary in 2029, Musashino Art University has its roots in the Imperial Art School founded in 1929. Dedicated to cultivating artists equipped with extensive knowledge and humanistic education, the university continues to significantly contribute to cultural progress and social welfare. With two faculties and an extensive curriculum embracing all aspects of art and design, its alumni have made substantial impacts in various sectors globally. For further information, please visit the official Musashino Art University website.