#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Global Engagement #RCE Conference

Okayama University: Shaping the Future of Higher Education at the RCE Conference

Introduction

From October 21 to 23, 2023, Okayama University, in collaboration with the United Nations University and Okayama City, celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Regional Centres of Expertise (RCE) on Education for Sustainable Development by hosting the 14th Global RCE Conference in Okayama. Since its foundation in 2005, around 200 RCEs have been approved worldwide, with Okayama being one of the initial RCEs established at that time.

The Official Session

During the conference, Okayama University conducted an official session titled “Planetary-centered Universities at the Ethical Turn — Beyond SDGs toward Human & Planetary Well-being.” This session was moderated by Vice President Atsufumi Yokoi, who specializes in Global Engagement, and featured prominent leaders from higher education, UN youth representatives, and students from Okayama University. They gathered to exchange ideas and perspectives on the ethical responsibilities that universities hold in today's changing world.

Reassessing University Missions

The discussions underscored a critical viewpoint: the crisis of sustainability is not merely a scientific or political issue but fundamentally a crisis of ethics and worldview. This recognition has led to a re-evaluation of the university's mission. Participants emphasized the need to transition from the traditional economic expansion models to a perspective that considers humanity as part of the Earth’s ecosystem. This shift highlights the importance of moving from a “global” to a “planetary” approach in higher education, which calls for redefining the role and mission of universities as ethical ecosystems that support planetary regeneration.

The Need for Transformation

As leaders articulated, such a transformation requires a fundamental change in our perceptions and practices. Universities must assume responsibility as ethical foundations for global coexistence. This calls for immediate action to redefine their roles in supporting sustainable development while fostering intergenerational cooperation among various stakeholders in local and global contexts.

Call to Action

Moving forward, Okayama University pledges to enhance its efforts in co-creating a sustainable future for the community, driven by collaborative research, education, and social contributions. The institution aims to forge stronger ties with multiple stakeholders and across generations, continuing to be recognized as a core research university with unique characteristics that address both local and global challenges.

Notable Speakers

Among the distinguished speakers during the session were:

• - Professor Rajani Naidoo from the University of Exeter, a UNESCO Chairholder in Higher Education Management.
• - Dr. Darla K. Deardorff from Stellenbosch University, a UNESCO Chairholder for Intercultural Competence.
• - Dr. Julie Newman, the founding director of the Sustainability Office at MIT.
• - Iran Enbrelga, a youth representative from the UN SDG4- Education 2030 Steering Committee.
• - Azura Najira Tachiara from the Okayama University Global Discovery Program.

Conclusion

This event marked a significant milestone in highlighting the role of higher education in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and emphasized the ethical turn necessary for universities to thrive as centers for planetary well-being. Participants left inspired and motivated to continue the dialogue on how to implement these ideas into practical changes within their institutions.

References and Further Reading

• - 14th Global RCE Conference
• - Okayama University Global Engagement Center

As a proud supporter of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Okayama University continues to lead the charge in fostering collaboration and innovative educational frameworks that benefit both the local community and the global society. The university's significant contributions toward sustainability affirm its dedication to shaping a better future for all.