The 14th Global RCE Conference: Promoting Sustainable Development and Education Hosting at Okayama University
The 14th Global RCE Conference took place from October 21 to 23, 2025, at the Okayama Convention Center, co-sponsored by the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), Okayama City, and RCE Okayama. As part of its mission to advance Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), RCE serves as a Regional Centre of Expertise, with approximately 200 regions globally recognized by UNU-IAS.
RCE Okayama has a prestigious history, being one of the first seven recognized centers when it was established in 2005. The university participated as a Supporting Organization, involving various contributions including drafting the 'RCE Okayama Declaration 2025', organizing a university-sponsored panel discussion, and providing logistical support via student volunteers.
Among the conference activities, a field visit was organized on October 23rd, which the university meticulously planned and executed. This event attracted around 50 participants, including 30 conference attendees, 13 representatives from relevant organizations, and eight student assistants from Okayama University.
The opening session featured a speech by President Yasutomo Nasu, who emphasized, "Under the concept of a Whole Institution Approach, we endeavor to practice intergenerational and place-based learning, working towards the well-being of humanity and the planet, through educational and creative initiatives." The program included a variety of sessions that encouraged earnest engagement from participants, highlighting the dynamic atmosphere of learning and collaboration.
The field visit included tours of various university facilities such as the Co-Creation Innovation Lab (KIBINOVE), demonstrating the university's commitment to innovation in sustainable practices. In breakout sessions, topics ranged from ESD research and education to youth-led initiatives focusing on self-actualization and beyond. Distinguished speakers presented on well-being education at the Benesse Art Site Naoshima and collaborative sustainable food initiatives introduced by local firms in partnership with the university.
The university intends to continue its journey towards co-creating a desirable future for both the local region and the planet. By fostering multistakeholder partnerships and intergenerational solidarity, Okayama University seeks to amplify its research, educational, and community involvement initiatives. The expectation from the community concerning the university's distinctive research contributions remains high as it strives to embody the role of a core research institution.
The field visit program notably included presentations by notable professors and involved participants undertaking tours of cutting-edge research and educational facilities. These interactions allowed for collaborative learning and enhanced understanding of sustainable practices within an academic setting.
The Global RCE Conference also provided a platform for attendees from various backgrounds to exchange insights and propose innovative solutions geared towards sustainability.
As an institution dedicated to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Okayama University has been recognized with the Special Award at the inaugural Japan SDGs Award by the government. The commitment of Okayama University as a center for research and co-education continues to inspire optimism for future sustainable initiatives, paving the way for innovative practices to emerge in higher education.
Through its engagements and activities at the Global RCE Conference, Okayama University has underscored its role in global dialogues surrounding sustainability and education. Stakeholders remain eager to witness further developments and contributions from Okayama University as part of the ongoing effort to achieve a sustainable future.
Overall, the 14th Global RCE Conference exemplified the university's dedication to interconnecting education, research, and community engagement for sustainable development. The success of this event reflects the collaborative spirit of faculty, students, and regional partners dedicated to shaping a more sustainable and inclusive world.
RCE Okayama has a prestigious history, being one of the first seven recognized centers when it was established in 2005. The university participated as a Supporting Organization, involving various contributions including drafting the 'RCE Okayama Declaration 2025', organizing a university-sponsored panel discussion, and providing logistical support via student volunteers.
Among the conference activities, a field visit was organized on October 23rd, which the university meticulously planned and executed. This event attracted around 50 participants, including 30 conference attendees, 13 representatives from relevant organizations, and eight student assistants from Okayama University.
The opening session featured a speech by President Yasutomo Nasu, who emphasized, "Under the concept of a Whole Institution Approach, we endeavor to practice intergenerational and place-based learning, working towards the well-being of humanity and the planet, through educational and creative initiatives." The program included a variety of sessions that encouraged earnest engagement from participants, highlighting the dynamic atmosphere of learning and collaboration.
The field visit included tours of various university facilities such as the Co-Creation Innovation Lab (KIBINOVE), demonstrating the university's commitment to innovation in sustainable practices. In breakout sessions, topics ranged from ESD research and education to youth-led initiatives focusing on self-actualization and beyond. Distinguished speakers presented on well-being education at the Benesse Art Site Naoshima and collaborative sustainable food initiatives introduced by local firms in partnership with the university.
The university intends to continue its journey towards co-creating a desirable future for both the local region and the planet. By fostering multistakeholder partnerships and intergenerational solidarity, Okayama University seeks to amplify its research, educational, and community involvement initiatives. The expectation from the community concerning the university's distinctive research contributions remains high as it strives to embody the role of a core research institution.
The field visit program notably included presentations by notable professors and involved participants undertaking tours of cutting-edge research and educational facilities. These interactions allowed for collaborative learning and enhanced understanding of sustainable practices within an academic setting.
The Global RCE Conference also provided a platform for attendees from various backgrounds to exchange insights and propose innovative solutions geared towards sustainability.
As an institution dedicated to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Okayama University has been recognized with the Special Award at the inaugural Japan SDGs Award by the government. The commitment of Okayama University as a center for research and co-education continues to inspire optimism for future sustainable initiatives, paving the way for innovative practices to emerge in higher education.
Through its engagements and activities at the Global RCE Conference, Okayama University has underscored its role in global dialogues surrounding sustainability and education. Stakeholders remain eager to witness further developments and contributions from Okayama University as part of the ongoing effort to achieve a sustainable future.
Overall, the 14th Global RCE Conference exemplified the university's dedication to interconnecting education, research, and community engagement for sustainable development. The success of this event reflects the collaborative spirit of faculty, students, and regional partners dedicated to shaping a more sustainable and inclusive world.
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