#Japan #Tokyo #Community Engagement #Tokyo University #Otetsutabi

Collaboration Between Otetsutabi and Tokyo University of Economics

In a ground-breaking initiative, Otetsutabi, a human resource matching platform designed to address temporary manpower shortages in various regions, has teamed up with the Faculty of Communication at Tokyo University of Economics. This partnership, which commenced on June 6, 2025, aims to create opportunities for approximately 1,000 students to engage with local communities and explore diverse perspectives through hands-on experiences.

What is Otetsutabi?

Otetsutabi combines the notions of "helping out" and "traveling," connecting tourists with local farmers, inns, and hotels facing labor shortages. This unique platform not only alleviates local workforce issues but also promotes regional revitalization by fostering a fan base among participants who develop relationships with these communities. Currently, Otetsutabi boasts over 70,000 registrants and has collaborated with approximately 1,900 businesses nationwide, with about half of participants being university students.

The Educational Impact

The collaboration serves as an essential part of career education and is projected to enhance students' understanding of diverse value systems. Participants in Otetsutabi often report that their experiences significantly influence their future career paths. Engaging in local communities and communicating with residents expose students to different cultures, lifestyles, and working methods, facilitating personal growth and self-awareness crucial in today’s interconnected world.

Faculty Insights

Yuichi Sasaki, the dean of the Faculty of Communication, highlighted that the initiative aims to help students discover their strengths and potential career paths. By immersing themselves in the local culture, students can practice their language skills in a real-world setting or even create short films to promote Japan's local attractions abroad. Sasaki emphasizes the importance of practical learning experiences that are ripe for introspection during this formative period of student lives.

The Entrepreneurial Model

CEO Rina Nagaoka of Otetsutabi expressed her belief in the transformative power of experiences, stating, "Experience can’t be stolen by anyone." By spending time in different communities as working participants, students have a chance to reassess their viewpoints and gain valuable insights.

Mutual Benefits

This collaboration is designed to be beneficial for all parties involved. As students discover valuable learning opportunities through real interactions, local community members can enjoy support in addressing labor shortages while also gaining fresh perspectives. Both Otetsutabi and Tokyo University of Economics aim for a win-win situation that ultimately leads to growth and value for the students and communities alike.

Future Prospects

The partnership also opens doors for future collaborations with educational institutions. Otetsutabi encourages inquiries from universities, regional governments, and even private entities looking to reduce labor shortages and enrich educational experiences. With continued expansion, they hope to inspire students to establish organizations or projects that build upon their local experiences.

Through this initiative, the students gain hands-on experience, community engagement, and the opportunity to make significant contributions to regional development. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, this model sets a precedent for future partnerships that blend academic learning with real-world experiences. The expectation is that such endeavors will inspire a new generation of students armed with capable skills and a broader worldview, ready to engage in global and local communities effectively.