Shinagawa Gakugei High School Makes History in Esports Education
Shinagawa Gakugei High School, located in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has officially joined the ZETA DIVISION BUSINESS CLAN, marking a significant milestone as the first full-time high school to do so. This partnership is rooted in shared values that emphasize the establishment of a future where gaming culture is widely respected. The school aims to actively contribute to society by incorporating this value into its educational framework.
Background: Systematizing Esports as an Academic Discipline
As a pioneer, Shinagawa Gakugei High School has introduced a systematic curriculum designed specifically for esports education, under the title of the
Normal Course Esports Education Program. The guiding principle here is simple yet profound: "Games are Education." This philosophy seeks to elevate esports beyond mere entertainment or competition, viewing it instead as a comprehensive learning avenue that encompasses critical thinking, strategy, language, expression, and data analysis.
The program was developed in collaboration with Professor Takakazu Kato of Keio University’s Environment and Information Studies, who specializes in esports. The school has actively disseminated its research and practical applications to society, including prominent presentations at major events like the Tokyo Game Show. Furthermore, as a member of NASEF JAPAN (the North American Esports Federation, Japan branch), the school is forging links with international educational networks.
Shinagawa Gakugei High School is committed to ensuring that esports education is not just a fleeting trend, but rather a robust knowledge framework connected to society. They resonate deeply with ZETA DIVISION's vision and intend to participate in realizing this vision as an educational institution.
Future Directions: A New Model Connecting Education, Culture, and Society
With a vision to "Design the Value of Gathering," Shinagawa Gakugei High School is poised to bridge youth culture with educational contexts while fostering the future of gaming culture. Plans are underway to collaborate closely with GANYMEDE Inc., the entity behind ZETA DIVISION, to offer special lectures that provide insights into the field and career sessions, including office tours, where students can explore the practical aspects of the esports industry.
By joining the ZETA DIVISION BUSINESS CLAN, the school aims to construct a new model of industry-academia cooperation that integrates education with culture and societal impact.
Overview of ZETA DIVISION
Name: GANYMEDE Inc.
Location: 1-8-10 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Established: 2017
CEO: Daisuke Nishihara
Description: ZETA DIVISION operates as a professional esports team. The company manages professional gamers and streamers, produces content, and engages in marketing initiatives utilizing esports and gaming culture. Known as one of Japan's leading esports and gaming organizations, ZETA DIVISION was established in 2018 and gained recognition for competing in global tournaments, particularly in the
VALORANT category. The team has participated in over 275 national and international tournaments, winning millions in prize money and establishing itself as a premier brand in the gaming lifestyle sector that extends beyond gaming into fashion, music, and creative fields.
ZETA DIVISION Website
Overview of ZETA DIVISION BUSINESS CLAN
The ZETA DIVISION BUSINESS CLAN is a membership organization consisting of companies and institutions that share ZETA DIVISION's mission and values. Members engage in activities aimed at enhancing understanding of the esports market, promoting PR targeting the Gen Z demographic, and creating new business and educational opportunities. They actively contribute to the advancement of gaming culture and its societal benefits.
Overview of Shinagawa Gakugei High School
Name: Shinagawa Gakugei High School (Miyura Gakuen Educational Corporation)
Location: 2-16-12 Toyotown, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Established: 1903
Chairman: Hiroaki Miura
Principal: Akira Wakabayashi
Overview: Originating from Japan’s oldest private music school, Shinagawa Gakugei High School aims for students to excel in entrance exams for prestigious universities while fostering a diverse curriculum that includes esports, performing arts, and music. The school emphasizes the fusion of intellect and sensibility. In April 2023, they launched the
Esports Education Course, providing innovative education that integrates academics with expression.
Shinagawa Gakugei High School Website
Shinagawa Gakugei Instagram
Media Contact for More Information
Shintaro Amemiya (Director of Public Relations, Shinagawa Gakugei High School)
Phone: 03-3786-1711
Email: [email protected]