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Cultivating Project Management Skills at Okayama University

On December 29, 2025, Okayama University (headquartered in Okayama City) hosted the third session, Day 3, of its foundational training for project management, targeting skill enhancement to foster human resources capable of leading university administration. The event took place in the Main Building at the Tsushima Campus and welcomed participation from eight vice directors from various departments, two technical staff from the Comprehensive Technical Department, and six administrative staff members.

This workshop is held in collaboration with the Project Management Institute (PMI) Japan Chapter, recognized as the largest global association in project management. The initiative aims to equip university staff with the essential skills in project management, enriching their expertise in education, research, technical work, and administration. This blend of knowledge is crucial for cultivating capable university management personnel.

In this third session, participants received lectures from experts including Yukio Ishizuka, leader of the PMI Japan training program, Akio Torimoto (sub-leader), Keisuke Tanaka, and Junko Omori. The session started with a review of the previous topics, focusing on creating a 'Risk Management Ledger' to address project risks. Participants were divided into groups of three to brainstorm potential risks associated with the "Okayama University Vision Symposium" and compile a corresponding 'Risk Management Ledger' with guidance from PMI Japan's advisors.

Following this, the next lecture concentrated on issue management within project execution. Groups practiced creating an 'Issue Management Ledger' through collaborative efforts. Additionally, topics on change management during project execution and project closure were discussed comprehensively in lectures.

To conclude the training, representatives from each group shared their insights and key takeaways from the overall course. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Participants noted the significance of clearly articulating and documenting schedules, tasks, and risks within their teams. They expressed appreciation for the opportunity to undergo training with colleagues from diverse roles, finding the experience refreshing. Others highlighted the valuable lessons learned regarding the balance of planning and flexibility required in project management. Many participants were eager to incorporate their newly acquired knowledge into their practical work environments.

The overarching coordinators, Yukari Mimura and Norihito Sato, provided a summary of the training sessions, marking the successful completion of the three-part foundational course on project management.

Looking ahead, the university is dedicated to addressing the remaining tasks and advancing various training initiatives to foster collaboration among faculty across different departments. By enhancing the skills of its staff, Okayama University aims to engage them more deeply in the management of its mission as a "regional core and distinctive research university." Participants and the university community can look forward to the ongoing challenges and the proactive efforts of the faculty.

This foundational training is part of Okayama University's larger initiative under the "Regional Core and Distinctive Research University Strengthening Promotion Project (J-PEAKS)."

Remarks from University President

In his closing remarks, President Yasushi Nasu expressed gratitude toward the leaders from PMI Japan, including Yukio Ishizuka and Akio Torimoto, for their support in successfully concluding the Day 3 session. He announced the ongoing work on remaining tasks and assured that staff members who completed the training would be awarded open badges from PMI Japan. President Nasu urged all participants to leverage their newly gained knowledge and networks to drive change at the university. He emphasized that the foundation for university transformation lies in the change among its faculty and staff, encouraging an exciting and dynamic approach to ongoing initiatives.

Further collaborations with PMI Japan and the Asia Pacific division, alongside the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), continue as part of the broader commitment to enhancing research management personnel in universities. The university remains steadfast in its mission as a leading research institution vested in addressing global challenges and contributing to society.