#Japan #Tokyo #Internship Program #Z Generation #ZION Project

ZION: The Next-Generation Project-Based Internship Program

Introduction
Started by Nissho Co., Ltd. in collaboration with Hands UP, the ZION internship program offers Generation Z students a unique opportunity to address real societal and business challenges. This initiative not only fosters personal growth but also enhances students' resumes with significant experiences valuable for future employment.

What is ZION?

ZION is an innovative internship program where students don’t just observe; they actively engage with real corporate projects. Unlike traditional internships that typically focus on administrative tasks, ZION allows students to work collaboratively on significant projects, for instance, assisting in spatial design or obtaining ISO9001 certification. Such rare opportunities aim to transform the students' life experiences.

Academic Program Highlights

Throughout the eight-session academic program, participants will focus on essential business knowledge and skills for thriving in an AI-driven world, referred to as “gifts.” This structured program is designed to cultivate practical, progressive learning experiences that resonate with the values and realities of Generation Z.

Background of the Project

In recent years, the participation of students in long-term internships has been declining. Generation Z particularly prioritizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness, seeking tangible outcomes for their time investments. In light of this trend, the ZION project shifts its focus from merely accumulating resume building experiences to providing transformative experiences that yield genuine growth and realizable outcomes. The outputs and achievements from this project will be publicly disclosed through official channels, greatly contributing to the students' career development.

Program Overview

ZION is a co-creative experience between Generation Z students and Nissho Co., Ltd., framed as a project-based internship. Unlike conventional payroll-based internships, this initiative encourages students to form teams and tackle actual business challenges. Through this hands-on approach, students acquire essential business acumen and learn to confront real societal issues, enabling them to witness their personal growth while offering companies fresh, innovative perspectives.

Recruitment Information

• - Eligible Candidates: University students, graduate students, or vocational students (any year level is welcome)
• - Start Date: Projects will commence successively from July 2025
• - Work Format: Primarily offline/remote options can be discussed
• - Time Commitment: Generally two days a week, four hours a day (may vary by project)
• - Application Process: Interested candidates can apply via the dedicated form: Application Form

Students from outside Tokyo are also welcomed to apply.

Project Schedule

1. Application Period: Starts in May 2025
2. Onboarding & Kick-Off (Early July 2025): Successful candidates will be assigned to project teams and share activity specifics through online/offline orientation sessions. Interns will undergo career surveys and self-assessments to visualize their initial skills.
3. Academic Program (July 2025 onward): Eight sessions focusing on work-life skills, such as business manners, presentations, sales, and AI literacy, along with addressing environmental and societal issues through introspective content.
4. Project Duration (Tentatively August to September 2025): Example projects may include contributing to an ISO9001 design project or participating in HVAC design with company consultants.

Quotes from Leadership

Kazushi Suzuki, CEO of Nissho:
"We are excited to launch an internship that provides students with the opportunity to gain valuable, real-world experience while expanding their potential. It is our hope that this program will serve as a stepping stone towards their future endeavors."

Haruka Namba, CEO of Hands UP:
"Generation Z possesses the power to question norms and create their future through their thoughts and actions. ZION offers them a platform not only to engage with social challenges but also to grow alongside professional mentors in a collaborative learning environment."

About Nissho Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1981, Nissho is dedicated to providing comfortable environments through equipment contracting, maintenance, and repairs. With a diverse client base that includes public facilities, rail-related projects, mixed-use buildings, and hotels, Nissho is committed to sustainable growth as they approach their 50th anniversary in 2030.

About Hands UP

Hands UP focuses on maximizing individual happiness and potential through the development of next-generation businesses tailored to Generation Z, operating projects across various sectors and collaborating with more than 60 companies and organizations.