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Special Financial Education Class Held by Ajinomoto and NVIC

On March 10, 2026, Ajinomoto Co., a renowned food manufacturer in Japan, collaborated with NVIC, an investment advisory firm under the Agricultural and Forestry Central Bank Group, to host a unique financial education class at Katayama Gakuen Elementary School in Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture. This special class aimed to help students grasp essential concepts about society and the meaning of money, using the familiar lens of "food and nutrition".

Background of the Initiative

This initiative came to fruition due to the alignment of both companies with the educational philosophy of Katayama Gakuen Elementary School, which is "For your future, 20 years from now." Food and nutrition are integral to a child's daily life and are underpinned by creativity and passion aimed at bringing smiles to people. This value is what facilitates the circulation of money within society. By connecting the joy of "deliciousness" with feelings of gratitude, the aim of the class was to simplify complex discussions around investment and money, allowing children to relate these concepts to their own futures.

Event Overview

• - Date: March 10, 2026 (Tuesday)
• - Location: Katayama Gakuen Elementary School, Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture
• - Participants: 24 fifth-grade students

Class Details

Session 1: "The Secrets of Umami and Nutrition"

• - Instructor: Shin Iimura from Ajinomoto Co.

In this session, Iimura emphasized the idea that "you are made up of what you eat." The class delved into the relationship between food and the body while focusing on umami, one of the five basic tastes. Students learned how umami enhances flavors found in dashi, a fundamental ingredient in Japanese cuisine, evident in kelp and bonito flakes. They engaged in a hands-on experience, adding umami seasoning to a light miso soup to observe the resulting taste transformation. This practical activity illustrated that by effectively utilizing umami, it’s possible to enhance flavors without increasing salt content. Additionally, the importance of the five essential nutrients, well-balanced meals, and nutritional support for top athletes was discussed, aiding in the children's understanding of healthy nutrition and nutritional literacy.

Session 2: "Money as a Symbol of Gratitude"

• - Instructor: Keisuke Nakata from NVIC

Nakata elaborated on the concept that "money is a symbol of gratitude," using videos and interactive exercises to convey this idea. The activities prompted students to think about the use of money and time in relation to their present and future selves, exploring how various jobs arise from a combination of "what you love" and "what you're good at." Iimura also shared insights into his job and how he receives gratitude within society. To extend learning beyond the classroom, students were assigned to inquire how their family members receive gratitude through their work, making the educational experience more comprehensive.

NVIC's Financial Education Materials for Elementary Students

In January 2026, NVIC developed a financial education curriculum for elementary students based on the concept of "money as a symbol of gratitude." The curriculum integrates the unique perspective of "self-investment × financial investment". The educational materials include:

• - Illustrated Booklet: This teaches that money is a "symbol of gratitude" that resolves people's issues. It contains exercises on using money for both the present and future (self-investment) and encourages students to think about future careers based on their interests and strengths (career education).
• - Animated Videos: The storyline follows Sora, the protagonist, who, along with friends, helps people in need while collecting pieces of gratitude. The content emphasizes essential financial concepts and the significance of self-investment.

Comments from the Principal of Katayama Gakuen Elementary School

Koichi Haramoto, Principal of Katayama Gakuen, remarked:

"This class exemplified a fusion of 'food education' by Ajinomoto and 'financial education' by NVIC, truly creating an A&F lesson. The hands-on experience led by Ajinomoto engaged the students' interests, while Nakata's storytelling captured their attention brilliantly. I was particularly impressed by Iimura sharing his feelings about his job, highlighting the societal aspects of receiving gratitude. Previous A&F lessons lacked perspectives on how money is earned, but this session illustrated that rewards arise as a result of contributing to society, which I believe is profoundly significant. This opportunity significantly broadened the students' understanding of society that cannot be gained solely within the classroom."

About NVIC

NVIC operates as an investment management firm under the Agricultural and Forestry Central Bank Group. Having pioneered long-term selective investing in Japan, NVIC has consistently maintained the philosophy of long-term investment since its establishment in 2007. With an enduring commitment to nurturing the next generation keen on financial knowledge and investment education, NVIC seeks to reinforce societal values through these initiatives.

For more information about NVIC’s financial education initiatives, visit NVIC's website.