Okayama University President Joins UN HESI Global Forum 2025 to Promote International Collaboration

Okayama University President Participates in UN HESI Global Forum 2025

On July 21, 2025, President Hayatomo Nasu of Okayama University took part in the UN-hosted Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) Global Forum 2025. This significant event, which operates as part of the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), welcomed approximately 300 participants from around the world, including policymakers, representatives from international organizations, academia, students, and civil society groups. Nasu was notably the only invited speaker from Japan at this global gathering.

The forum focused on the theme: "Breaking Down Challenges Arising from Inequality through Scientific, Inclusive, and Fair Solutions in Sustainable Development." Despite time zone differences, the strong turnout of participants highlighted a collective interest in the topic and a growing international solidarity.

In his address during Session 3, titled "Collaboration and Social Participation: Strengthening the Role of Higher Education," Nasu shared insights on how higher education institutions can cooperate with governments, private sectors, and citizens to tackle sustainable development challenges at the community level. He asserted that universities must evolve beyond being mere think tanks to become action tanks, emphasizing the need for active contribution through research, education, and community collaboration for the well-being of people and the planet.

Nasu highlighted key initiatives undertaken by Okayama University aimed at promoting sustainability. One notable project is the Okayama ESD Project, developed under the UN University Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) network. This initiative collaborates with over 400 partner organizations across 37 community centers in Okayama City, providing education on disaster response, biodiversity, and sustainable food practices. The project's impact garnered international recognition, including the 2016 UNESCO ESD Award and a special prize at the inaugural Japan SDGs Award in 2017.

Furthermore, Nasu spoke about the establishment of the Global Engagement Center, which integrates UNESCO chair activities into the university's core decision-making process. This center, slated to become fully operational in fiscal 2025 with support from the Japanese Ministry of Education, aims to promote cross-disciplinary education and research related to SDGs, with seven deputy chairs ensuring the alignment of departmental activities with these goals.

Nasu also touched on the importance of active youth participation and gender equality in the fields of science, technology, and innovation (STI). He introduced the world’s first UNESCO-recognized Youth Ambassador program, designed to give young people opportunities to voice their perspectives on international platforms. Additionally, the Young Women Scientists Program, established in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), aims to bridge the gender gap in STI fields by inviting young female researchers from Africa, ASEAN, and Latin America to Japan for practical research experiences. This program was previously highlighted as a best practice at the UN STI Forum.

Addressing a question from session participants about how to initiate action in resource-limited situations, Nasu advised starting small and maintaining momentum, underscoring that taking the initial step is crucial. This perspective resonated with many participants during the final report meeting.

The forum also announced the launch of the HESI Partnership Framework, marking the beginning of a new international collaboration framework among UN agencies, universities, students, and partner organizations, aimed at advancing sustainable educational practices and policies.

Moving forward, Okayama University commits to showcasing leadership in creating sustainable societies, grounded in the spirit of cooperation over competition. The university continuously strives to connect with the local community and the world, solidifying its reputation as a distinguished research institution dedicated to sustainability. Expect more innovative endeavors from Okayama University in fostering a better future for our global community.