Okayama University Enhances Collaboration for Regional Innovation through J-PEAKS Initiative

On April 23, 2025, Okayama University, located in Okayama City, held a significant exchange meeting with Nagaoka University of Technology regarding the "Regional Core and Distinctive Research University Enhancement Promotion Project (J-PEAKS)." This event took place at the Co-Creation Innovation Lab (KIBINOVE) on Okayama University's Tsushima campus.

The primary goal of this meeting was to share insights gained through the J-PEAKS initiative, facilitating further development of strategies outlined by both universities under this project. Among the visitors from Nagaoka University was Professor Tadao Nakayama, the Vice President in charge of the J-PEAKS program. From Okayama University, the participants included Vice President Norihito Sato and senior URA (University Research Administrator) representatives.

During the discussion, various themes were addressed, including the educational system of Okayama University's Advanced Research Institute, researcher time management, student initiatives, and more. Vice President Sato emphasized the university's commitment to leveraging J-PEAKS not merely as a research funding program but as a means to facilitate the realization of "Okayama University Long-Term Vision 2050." He expressed the need for a collective understanding among all stakeholders that participation in J-PEAKS should contribute to broader institutional and organizational reforms, aiming to foster a culture of excitement and hope throughout the university.

Professor Nakayama shared insights about collaborative efforts and proposed future international opportunities, suggesting specific partnerships for mutual benefit between the two institutions. The meeting soon transitioned into a guided tour of the Co-Creation Innovation Lab, allowing participants to explore the space where innovation is nurtured and discuss its potentialities.

The exchange meeting successfully highlighted the challenges and success stories associated with the J-PEAKS project, enabling both universities to strengthen their collaboration. As a result, actionable partnership ideas emerged, with plans to initiate these collaborations within the current academic year.

Okayama University is not only dedicated to collaborating with other universities that became J-PEAKS designates in the 2025 academic year but is actively engaging with other institutions like Ritsumeikan University and Kyushu Institute of Technology. This effort aims to transform the landscape of research universities in Japan, shifting from competition to a platform of collaborative innovation that enhances research capabilities and drives societal transformation.

Furthermore, the meeting was more than a simple exchange; it was a commitment to devise, decide, and implement concrete policies moving forward. Members of the participating universities are encouraged to reach out to Okayama University for collaboration opportunities, not limited just to those institutions under the J-PEAKS initiative.

Expectations for continuous challenges and transformations from Okayama University and its partners, including Nagaoka University of Technology, remain high as they pursue their mission of co-creating a sustainable future for both the local region and the planet through research.

About KIBINOVE

The Co-Creation Innovation Lab (KIBINOVE) was established under the Ministry of Education’s strategy for enhancing collaboration between research universities. By addressing social issues through innovations based on research outcomes, this facility aims to strengthen university functions and foster startups that contribute to new industries.

For more information about Okayama University and the J-PEAKS initiative, please visit their official website or reach out to their respective offices regarding collaborations or partnerships.