#Japan #Saitama #Tsukuba University #APP Japan #ESD Symposium

The 14th International ESD Symposium at Tsukuba University High School

On November 15, 2025, the 14th International ESD (Education for Sustainable Development) Symposium was held at Tsukuba University High School in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. This significant event attracted students from various universities and high schools both domestically and internationally, including representatives from Ehime University High School, Tokyo University of Agriculture, and students from countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The symposium adopted a hybrid format of online and in-person participation, aiming to foster a collaborative environment for discussing crucial sustainability topics.

The event commenced with a comprehensive introduction session where all participating schools were highlighted, followed by the keynote speeches that set the stage for the discussions. Participants then split into working groups, each focusing on unique research related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year, APP Japan, a company based in Tokyo, participated for the fifth consecutive year, contributing to the group dedicated to “Challenges for Building a Sustainable Society with High School Students.”

In particular, the symposium featured students who had visited APP's operations in Indonesia. These students presented their findings and experiences related to the company’s environmental initiatives, showcasing the collaborative efforts between the company and educational institutions to promote sustainable activities. The students had previously engaged in fieldwork with Ehime University High School during the summer, where they had the opportunity to visit APP’s factory, reforestation sites, and learn about the “Forest Regeneration Project,” which aims to restore natural forests through community support and contributions to sustainability.

During the workshop discussions, fieldwork participants shared their insights and reflections through detailed presentations. Attendees were split into several groups to facilitate an engaging discussion on future sustainable societal development, encouraging a rich exchange of ideas. Each group later provided a one-minute summary of their discussions, offering a variety of perspectives on how different stakeholders might contribute to a sustainable future.

The symposium concluded with remarks from Tan Wei Hsien, APP Japan’s Chairman and CEO, who participated online. He expressed his happiness regarding the students’ understanding of the messages conveyed during the Indonesian fieldwork, emphasizing the importance of translating those experiences into actionable insights for their future endeavors in sustainability.

The participation of various media outlets, including those from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, further underscored the importance of this event, as APP representatives were also interviewed to discuss their company’s commitment toward sustainable practices.

APP Japan’s ongoing contribution to international education initiatives reflects a dedication to aligning corporate objectives with global sustainability goals, creating meaningful partnerships with educational institutions to inspire the next generation of leaders in environmental stewardship. Through collaborative projects and fieldwork, students are not only gaining firsthand experience but also developing a deeper understanding of their role in fostering a sustainable future.

In summary, the 14th International ESD Symposium provided a platform for high school students from various backgrounds to connect, collaborate, and engage in vital discussions focused on sustainability. The actions of students and companies like APP Japan highlight the collective commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting a sustainable future for all.