#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Global Discovery Program #The World Kitchen

Okayama University Hosts Diversity Roundtable

On November 19, 2025, Okayama University, located in Okayama City and led by President Nasu Yoshitomo, held a diversity roundtable in collaboration with the Okayama University Research Cooperation Association. This event took place at the Co-Creation Innovation Lab, KIBINOVE, on the Tsushima campus.

The roundtable aimed to promote mutual understanding between foreign students enrolled at Okayama University and employees of local companies, thereby enhancing the potential for utilizing global talent in the region. The event saw the participation of foreign employees from companies based in Okayama Prefecture, such as Wesco Corporation and Hagiwara Industries, along with around 30 students from diverse backgrounds, gathered for an enriching exchange.

The co-facilitators for the roundtable were students enrolled in Okayama University’s Global Discovery Program (GDP), which brings together students from over 26 countries. GDP students are deeply involved in promoting multicultural exchange through initiatives like “The World Kitchen.” Leveraging their experience, they led conversations throughout the event, facilitating a vibrant dialogue.

Discussions ranged from light-hearted topics like “Japan’s best food” and “dishes to recommend from your home country” to more substantial themes including “essentials for working in Japan,” “differences between working in Japan and abroad,” and “Japanese business etiquette and career choices.” This two-part discussion format allowed students to engage closely in small groups, fostering active and thoughtful dialogue over about two hours.

Participants from the companies expressed a positive outlook on the event. A representative mentioned, “Engaging in direct conversations with international students allowed us to learn about Japan’s strengths and weaknesses. Our employees who attended found the experience very stimulating.” Students also voiced satisfaction, with one commenting, “I feel reassured knowing that fellow nationals are thriving in local companies. It’s helpful for planning my future career.”

Okayama University is committed to promoting the regional retention of outstanding international students and will continue organizing such exchange events to support community revitalization. Attendees and the wider academic community can look forward to further initiatives from Okayama University, a distinctive research institution that serves as a core player in the region’s development.

About the Okayama University Research Cooperation Association

The Okayama University Research Cooperation Association fosters close collaboration between the university and the industrial sector in Okayama, facilitating various activities aimed at enhancing and innovating local industries through seamless partnerships.

About the Global Discovery Program (GDP)

The GDP at Okayama University offers a liberal arts education in English, encompassing social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. Students explore diverse academic fields with a focus on the principles of diversity, social innovation, and sustainability.

Event Highlights

• - Welcome Address: Akira Imai, Director of the Research and Innovation Co-Creation Headquarters, opened the event with heartfelt remarks.
• - Roundtable Dynamics: Engaging discussions marked the event, characterized by a blend of light-hearted and serious themes.
• - Venue: The event was held at KIBINOVE, the Co-Creation Innovation Lab on Tsushima campus, which serves as a hub for innovation and collaboration.

Future Efforts

Okayama University is dedicated to aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and recently received a special award at the inaugural Japan SDGs Award. This reflects the university's commitment to fostering community collaboration and innovation in education.

For more information, visit the Okayama University Research Cooperation Association website or the Global Discovery Program overview.