Waseda University 2025 Tomo Festival: A Forum on Education and Environment

On October 19, Waseda University will host a significant forum during the Tomo Festival, focusing on two critical themes: education and the environment. This event aims to foster a dialogue between current students and professionals from various fields, encouraging participants to think about Japan’s future. The discussions will take place in Room 801 of the Waseda Campus from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, divided into two parts: Education and Environment.

The issue of education in Japan has gained attention, especially considering the economic burdens posed by decreased birth rates. Many experts argue that these factors contribute to educational inequalities that need to be addressed through public policy. In parallel, the need for a workforce capable of competing internationally has become an urgent strategy for growth in keeping with globalization. These challenges reveal the complex nature of educational reforms that cannot be viewed from a single perspective.

Additionally, Japan's energy strategy is at a crossroads, intensified by the changes in the international landscape in recent years. With limited natural resources, the nation faces various challenges related to non-fossil energy sources. Japan must develop a unique energy strategy that balances stable supply, economic viability, and environmental sustainability while tackling these significant hurdles.

To address these pressing issues, a collaborative effort is being made by a group of engaged professionals known as Team 81 and the political circle Hoshikai. They will be joined by six notable speakers actively working in the fields of education and environment. Through their interactions with current students, the event aims to share insights into the current state of education and environmental challenges in Japan and explore pathways for future societal advancement.

Education Panel Speakers (in no particular order)

- Yuichi Kurosaki: Head of the Liberal Democratic Party’s Tokyo 27th Electoral District and former member of the Minato City Council.
- Yoshihiro Takizawa: Supervisor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education.
- Shigehiro Kuwahara: Vice Chairman of Aflac Life Insurance Co., and former board member of the Bank of Japan.
- Ryu Harada: Current student and Vice Secretary-General of Hoshikai.

Environmental Panel Speakers (in no particular order)

- Yasunori Nishimura: Member of the House of Representatives and former Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.
- Mitsuru Akiyoshi: External auditor at INPEX and Director of Yokohama Financial Group, former Vice President of Marubeni.
- Akihiro Washizu: Professor at Waseda University’s Graduate School of Social Sciences.
- Ren Yoshida: Current student and Secretary-General of Hoshikai.

Please note that Yasunori Nishimura will be attending online.

Everyone is welcome to attend, and no prior registration is needed, making this an accessible opportunity for the community to engage in crucial discussions shaping Japan’s future. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and engage with experts and peers on issues that matter deeply to our society.