Empowering Youth in Kasukabe: Collaboration Between Kyoei University and Local Businesses

In a significant move to invigorate the local community, Kyoei University, along with local enterprises, has embarked on a unique partnership aimed at energizing the city of Kasukabe, Saitama. On April 24, 2025, a special lecture was held for approximately 100 students, focusing on the theme of community revitalization. The initiative is spearheaded by 株式会社Dooox, a company dedicated to supporting local action through its “Machi-Mori Project” (City Vitalization Project) that encourages community involvement and fosters regional growth.

Context and Importance of Local Solutions

Kasukabe City is poised beautifully between urban accessibility and rich natural landscapes, yet it faces challenges like many regional cities, including the revitalization of the local economy and the nurturing of future generations. The collaboration between Kyoei University, which is committed to practical education and has an extensive partnership agreement with Kasukabe, and local enterprises passionate about community development, is vital in addressing these challenges.

The goal of the special lecture was to convey to students the genuine attractions and challenges of working locally, ultimately prompting them to realize their ambitions and engage more deeply with their community.

Lecture Highlights and Key Messages

The lecture began with a presentation from Dooox's Gō Asaka, who introduced the company's approach of “Changing the world through action.” Following this, Kazu Takahira, representing the NPO Kyōriki KASUKABE and also the President of SanShu Seika Co., Ltd., shared insights from a businessman’s perspective. He articulated the importance of contributing to society through business and shed light on his experiences and the lessons learned.

Takahira elaborated on collaborative initiatives undertaken by Kyōriki KASUKABE, including the implementation of local projects like the “Tea Sauna” and “Craft Beer Garden,” along with the successful launch of the tourism content “Crayon Shin-chan: Mysterious Journey in Kasukabe.” These activities serve to both discover and promote the area's charm.

The session culminated with a motivating message from both presenters: the call to collectively create a city that everyone wishes to revisit and the encouragement to take action as a way to open new paths.

Engaging Responses from Students

The lecture was hosted in a classroom at Kyoei University, attended primarily by students from the International Business department led by Assistant Professor Taiga Ito. The atmosphere was charged with intention, as students focused intently, occasionally taking notes in response to the engaging narratives shared by local leaders.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Students expressed appreciation for the comprehensive understanding of community-driven initiatives, with several remarks highlighting how the session inspired their current projects and provided insights for their future careers.

Comments included:

- “I found the idea of engaging the entire community to enhance our city to be truly inspiring.”
- “This was my first experience participating in such an event, and I absorbed so much. I would love to be part of future occasions.”
- “Takahira’s advice to accept and act upon my feelings has encouraged me to treasure my insights moving forward.”

Future Directions for Collaboration

Going forward, both Kyōriki KASUKABE and 株式会社Dooox intend to maintain their fruitful collaboration with Kyoei University to further invigorate Kasukabe City. This engagement not only aims to enhance the quality of education but also to deepen the connection between students and their local community, turning their aspirations into tangible actions.

Comments from Faculty

Professor Taiga Ito of Kyoei University highlighted how pivotal these conversations are, stating that hearing firsthand accounts from active community leaders has provided invaluable learning opportunities for students. This initiative is expected to spur ongoing relationships between academia and the community, paving the way for continued educational and developmental opportunities.

About Kyoei University

Located in Kasukabe City, Saitama Prefecture, Kyoei University is committed to graduate individuals capable of contributing to both local and international societies through its two faculties: the Faculty of International Business and the Faculty of Education. Active in community development projects such as this, the university continues to endeavor in creating impactful educational experiences.

About Kyōriki KASUKABE

This organization represents a coalition of local businesses within Kasukabe, including SanShu Seika Co., Ltd., working collaboratively to energize the community through various initiatives that enhance local attractions and encourage residents' involvement in activities building broader community ties.

About SanShu Seika Co., Ltd.

A notable manufacturer of premium rice crackers and confections, it provides unique products tailored for specialty stores, department stores, and renowned theme parks, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and quality.

About 株式会社Dooox

Focused on creating an engaging atmosphere where people can actively pursue their passions, Dooox offers various services aimed at encouraging new business opportunities and local projects. Their initiatives reflect a belief in the power of collective action and proactive involvement in local affairs.