#Japan #Tokyo #Entrepreneurship #Education Initiative #Exploration Challenge

Introduction

In recent years, the importance of practical learning has become a cornerstone of modern education, particularly with increasing emphasis on holistic university admission methods. The 'Exploration Challenge Project,' launched by the Children's Education Creation Organization, seeks to guide high school students in transforming their ideas into impactful implementations within just three months. Recognized by Japan's Ministry of Education, the program combines theoretical concepts with real-world application, aiming to cultivate the skills necessary for students to excel in competitive environments.

Background of the Program

As university admissions increasingly focus on holistic assessments, students are finding that traditional academic skills alone are no longer sufficient. The challenge lies in students' ability to generate pertinent questions and engage meaningfully with society. Many high school students often struggle with selecting a theme or translating their ideas into action, tending to rely on superficial online research instead of deep, hands-on inquiry.

Evaluators in both academia and industry are keen to understand the processes students undergo to gather authentic information — or what is referred to as 'primary data' — when engaging with real-world contexts. The program is designed in collaboration with a leading entrepreneurship expert and aims to empower students in taking initiative and achieving tangible results through guided support.

Program Highlights

1. Expert-Led Learning and Practical Field Experience

Participants will attend live lectures three times a month, where they will learn essential frameworks for problem-solving and value creation from industry professionals. In addition, the program provides access to over 150 families involved in private childcare services operated by the organization, serving as a testing ground for students to gather vital primary information through surveys and practical events. This unique approach enhances their learning experience by enabling them to conduct real-world hypothesis testing.

2. Dual Mentorship System to Prevent Stagnation

Exploratory projects often encounter roadblocks. To combat this, the program incorporates a 'Double Mentor System,' pairing career consultants with experienced students who have successfully navigated similar challenges. Weekly strategy meetings ensure that participants can streamline their thought processes, fostering progress in their projects while receiving continuous guidance.

3. Scientific Strength Analysis by Certified Coaches

In collaboration with Gallup, the program utilizes the widely adopted CliftonStrengths assessment to identify participants' strengths. This goes beyond mere self-analysis; Gallup-certified coaches work one-on-one with students to refine their talents into powerful tools for project implementation, bridging the gap between personal insights and professional applications.

Who Should Participate?

This initiative is particularly beneficial for high school students who:

• - Are results-oriented and wish to create a portfolio reflecting their unique activities and achievements, especially for university admissions.
• - Aim to transform theoretical discussions into practical inquiries that can effect societal change.
• - Seek to embark on a '0 to 1' project with professional mentorship but are uncertain about how to realize their ambitions.

Meet the Program Supervisor

The 'Exploration Challenge Project' is steered by Hiroki Mori, the representative director of the Children's Education Creation Organization and an appointed ambassador for entrepreneurship by the Ministry of Education. With an extensive background in research and development at NTT Group, Mori holds an MBA and is a nationally certified career consultant. He actively advises on entrepreneurship education programs across various municipalities and education committees, advocating for youth development and entrepreneurial thinking.

Program Details

• - Name: Exploration Challenge Project
• - Duration: 3 Months
• - More Information & Application: Explore More Here

The Children's Education Creation Organization, established over a decade ago, operates childcare facilities in Chuo City and Koto City while also offering curriculum development in computer science, entrepreneurship education, and career training.

• - Name: Children's Education Creation Organization
• - Director: Hiroki Mori
• - Location: 2F Kachidoki Greenland Building, 3-19 Kachidoki, Chuo City, Tokyo, 104-0054
• - Established: October 2012
• - Key Services: Educational initiatives for children, entrepreneurship education, and childcare services.

In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the 'Exploration Challenge Project' emerges as a beacon for high school students eager to make their mark on society.