#Japan #Entrepreneurship #Moriya #MiraiKuru Lab #Moriya City

Miraikuru Lab's Initiative in Moriya City

Miraikuru Lab, an organization dedicated to entrepreneurship education targeting children, has taken a significant step in nurturing the next generation of innovators. In collaboration with StartupSide Moriya and the Moriya City Government, they are running the "Entrepreneurship Education Program – Experience Entrepreneurship in Moriya". This program is designed specifically for elementary and middle school students, providing an interactive and engaging environment for young participants.

Program Overview

Following the success of its inaugural year in 2024, this second edition aims to deepen students' understanding of social issues and foster their commitment to their local community through a series of three workshops. The initiative, a component of Moriya City’s strategy for cultivating next-generation talent and revitalizing the region, targets students from 4th grade to 3rd year of middle school residing in Moriya.

The workshops will span three days, allowing students to brainstorm, develop, and present their ideas while focusing on local social challenges. Each session is designed to enhance their critical thinking and collaborative skills, providing them with the opportunity to engage with real-world issues and solutions tailored to their community.

Workshop Activities

• - Day 1 (October 4): Participants will venture outside to explore their surroundings and discover potential entrepreneurial ideas.
• - Day 2 (October 5): Students will introduce their discovered ideas and start shaping them into something tangible.
• - Day 3 (October 13): The final day will culminate in presentations where students showcase their projects and receive feedback from expert reviewers.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning through fieldwork in Moriya’s neighborhoods and participation in the Moriya Evening Market, where students can display their projects and interact with market visitors. This practical experience not only enhances their learning but also instills a sense of connection and responsibility towards their community.

Goals and Aspirations

Moriya City is well-known for its accessibility to urban centers via the Tsukuba Express and its commitment to family-friendly policies and migration support. One of the underlying objectives of this program is to offer children the chance to reflect on their roles in society and contribute ideas for future community development. By immersing themselves in local resources and living environments, students gain firsthand experience that is invaluable for their growth as future entrepreneurs.

The first installment of the program received enthusiastic feedback, with students expressing a heightened interest in their community and societal roles after their involvement. This year's program enhances that experience by incorporating gamification elements to make the learning experience even more engaging and relevant.

Support from Local Institutions

Miraikuru Lab leads the program's planning and content delivery, with a focus on expanding children's potential and providing localized educational experiences. StartupSide Moriya, recognized as Moriya's first entrepreneurial co-working facility, plays a crucial role in facilitating the program, connecting local residents with entrepreneurs and supporting community-based initiatives.

About Miraikuru Lab

Operating under the motto "Becoming Adults Faster", Miraikuru Lab implements educational programs across the nation aimed at empowering children to create their futures from their interests and values. Their approach includes entrepreneurship education and project-based learning that connects youth with their local communities. Furthermore, their initiative Academee encourages university and high school students to participate in real-world projects, bridging the gap between education and practical experience.

In conclusion, the Moriya Entrepreneurship Education Program stands as a beacon of opportunity for young individuals in the area, fostering not only their entrepreneurial skills but also deepening their ties to their community. With an encouraging environment and supportive mentors, the program is set to empower the next generation of leaders, ensuring they can navigate and contribute positively to society.