#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #J-PEAKS #TUM Association

Okayama University Hosts 10th University Top Management Training Extension

On August 13, 2026, Okayama University, located in Okayama City, hosted the "10th University Top Management Training Extension" organized by the TUM Association. This initiative aimed to enhance university management quality through shared learning experiences. Attendees included notable figures like Takahiro Ueyama, Special Advisor to the Cabinet Office, and various executive members from participating universities, including the President of Okayama University, Yasutomo Nasu.

Day 1 Activities

The first day took place at the Junko Fukutake Hall on Okayama University's Shikata Campus. The day started with an introductory address from Chairman Ohtake of the TUM Association, followed by remarks from Ueyama and a keynote lecture by President Nasu titled "Management Reforms in Research Universities." During his speech, Nasu discussed strategies aimed at enhancing research capabilities and fostering innovation. He emphasized comprehensive organizational reforms and the importance of breaking traditional paradigms in university management.

Key initiatives highlighted included efforts to elevate administrative and technical staff to positions of responsibility and to cultivate specialized professionals. These reforms are intended to support innovation and scientific advancements in Japan, aligning with the overarching goal of redefining university operations beyond the traditional emphasis on faculty administration.

The following address was given by Yoshinobu Maeda, Director of Okayama University Hospital, who discussed management reforms within the hospital. Participants engaged in a robust exchange of ideas concerning challenges like the developmental status of the Research Infrastructure Strengthening Project (J-PEAKS) and the realities of hospital reforms. Subsequent campus tours provided insights into the hospital's comprehensive perinatal medical center and imaging procedures, enriching participants’ understanding of advanced medical technologies.

Day 2 Insights

On the second day, activities shifted to the Co-Creation Innovation Laboratory at Tsushima Campus, where Nobuhiro Abe, Director responsible for digital transformation, presented a vision for education and research in forestry and wooden architecture. Another presentation covered helium recycling’s strategic implications for enhancing research capabilities and industry strength.

The discussions also focused on how collaboration across various disciplines can lead to effective research networks. A visit to the co-education co-creation commons facilitated further exploration of Okayama's leadership in sustainable forestry education and high-tech construction techniques, showcasing the region's advancements in wood-based construction.

Promoting Leadership in University Management

The event also featured an Online symposium on developing top management talent in universities, with participants discussing the skills required for effective university governance and the significance of nurturing leadership talent. Panelists included Takafumi Aoki (Tohoku University), Chairman Ohtake, President Nasu, and facilitators from Gunma University.

Okayama University continues to evolve as a pivotal research institution by leveraging the J-PEAKS program to drive societal change and innovation. The university’s commitment is evident in its initiatives supporting the development of technical staff and the shared use of research equipment. As the university strives to enhance its educational role and contribute actively to sustainable developmental goals (SDGs), the community eagerly anticipates its ongoing challenges and transformative endeavors.

The TUM Association, established in 2017, focuses on improving university management through regular training and facility visits, enhancing innovation management competencies among participants.

Learn more about Okayama University and their commitment to research and innovation at Okayama University Official Website.