#Japan #Tokyo #Peace Education #Yuichi Nakamura #Nakaiyoshi

Yuichi Nakamura to Address Peace Education at Special Lecture

The Nakaiyoshi Academy Project, led by Yuichi Nakamura in Matsudo City, Chiba, is set to participate in the 169th special seminar organized by the "Know Japan Association" on December 13, 2025. Nakamura will deliver a talk titled, "Considering Peace from the Current State of the World: What Children’s Education Should Convey for a Brighter Future."

Context of the Seminar

As global tensions and divisions unfold, with ongoing conflicts in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East, Japan approaches the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II. The diminishing presence of those who have directly experienced war raises concerns about how concepts like "peace" and "human rights" are understood, often relegated to mere textbook terms.

With the motto, "From wishing for peace to acting for peace," the Nakaiyoshi Academy Project has been dedicated to supporting children's education in conflict and impoverished areas across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Concurrently, it connects Japanese schools online, allowing students to explore and implement their learning in global contexts through the "Connecting with the World Educational Project (CoRe Loop)."

During the upcoming seminar, Nakamura aims to share insights on the peace perspectives expected from Japanese citizens and the viewpoints parents and educators should instill in children, drawing from his extensive experience in international cooperation and educational practices.

Content of the Lecture

Peace and Reality Through the Eyes of Global Children

Nakamura will present video and photo accounts of children he has encountered across more than ten countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwandan genocide survivors, South Sudanese refugees, and during reconstruction efforts in Deir ez-Zor, Syria. These narratives will highlight the harsh realities faced by children who yearn for education yet are deprived of it.

Exploring the Meaning of Peace Together

Using examples from dialogue-based classes conducted by Nakaiyoshi Academy in various schools throughout Japan—such as the questions, "What is peace?" and "What should we do if war breaks out?"—Nakamura will offer strategies for engaging children in open-ended discussions. The goal is not only to impart the lesson that "war is bad" but also to cultivate perspectives that emphasize finding commonalities and ensuring no one is left behind.

Transformations Through the "Connecting with the World Project"

The seminar will also showcase successful instances of the CoRe Loop, such as:

• - Children from remote islands who crafted bamboo kendama games now used in Syria and Rwanda.
• - Handmade soaps created by elementary school students serving as health education tools for children in Africa.
• - Middle school projects like "Peace Karuta" and "Disaster Preparedness Books" used in local classrooms.

These stories will illustrate how learning and acting for others can enhance children's self-esteem, accompanied by their voices reflecting this growth.

Practical Steps for Families and Schools

Participants will gain actionable insights for promoting peace, including:

• - Imagining the faces of peers beyond the news headlines.
• - Turning everyday play, skills, and local culture into global contributions.
• - Supporting children's aspirations with proactive adult involvement.

Speaker Profile

Yuichi Nakamura, the executive director of the Nakaiyoshi Academy Project and a Global Peace Educator, embodies the belief that education can transform lives. Having established Nakaiyoshi Academy as a refuge for students facing bullying and school refusal, he later expanded his mission to global peace initiatives, advocating for education in post-conflict settings. Nakamura’s recent accolades include speaking at the renowned Windsor Castle and various UN-related forums. In 2025, he will be recognized with the Tokihachiya Culture Prize for his longstanding contributions to international cooperation and education.

Event Details

Event: 169th Special Seminar of the Know Japan Association: "Considering Peace from the Current State of the World: What Children’s Education Should Convey for a Brighter Future"
Lecturer: Yuichi Nakamura (Nakaiyoshi Academy Project Executive Director)
Date: December 13, 2025, from 18:00 to 20:15 (Doors open at 17:30)
Location: Yushima Tenmangu Shrine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Participation Options: In-person (limited seats) and online via Zoom
Fees: General: 2,000 yen | Students: 1,000 yen | Zoom participation: 1,000 yen. For detailed registration information, check the official site of the Know Japan Association.

About the Organizing Body

The Know Japan Association focuses on understanding Japan's role in the world and aims to deepen cultural awareness among its members through continuous seminars and exchanges. Alongside YUICHI NAKAMURA’S initiative, they embrace the vision of fostering a millennium of ideal peace worldwide.

For media inquiries regarding Nakaiyoshi Academy Project and its activities, please contact:
Nakaiyoshi Academy Project
Responsible: Nakamura (Office)
E-mail: [email protected]
Official Website: Nakaiyoshi Academy