#Osaka Expo #EF Education First #Nanao Ito

EF Education First's Journey Toward Educational Sustainability

On May 22, 2023, EF Education First, a leading international education provider, announced the appointment of Nanao Ito as its first female country manager in Japan. The announcement was made at the Nordic Pavilion during the Osaka Kansai Expo 2025, where Ito delivered her inaugural speech.

The Importance of Education in Sustainability

In her address, Ito emphasized her belief that the foundation of sustainability relies on education, stating, "The understanding and actions of people are crucial in supporting sustainability." Drawing from her background in an environmental startup, Ito underscored the significance of not only physical challenges like microplastics and CO₂ emissions but also the necessity for empathy and cultural understanding.

EF Education First was founded in 1965 in Sweden and operates in over 100 countries, boasting 50 proprietary language schools. As one of the world's largest private education institutions, it offers a range of programs, including language study abroad, high school exchange programs, and graduate studies. Ito aims to expand EF's recognition and impact in Japan, similar to the strong presence EF holds in Europe alongside brands like Volvo and IKEA.

Key Points from Ito's Speech

In her presentation, Ito discussed four key aspects of how EF approaches sustainability through studying abroad, aligning her message with the Expo's theme, "Designing a Future Society Where Life Shines."

1. Education Opens Minds and Hearts

Starting her speech with a personal story, Ito shared, "My father is Japanese and my mother is Norwegian; I grew up in a shopping district along the Kandagawa River in Tokyo. At 12, I moved to the USA, where I faced loneliness due to language barriers. However, a joke I made in class helped me make my first friend. This pivotal moment opened up my world." This experience parallels EF's philosophy that education is not merely about skills; it facilitates cultural exchanges that connect people across borders. Ito highlighted this transformative experience as her "Decision Shaping Moment" (DS Moment) at EF.

2.