#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #OU! EXPO #SDGs Ambassador

Okayama University’s 'Okayama EXPO Lab 2025'

On December 20, 2025, Okayama University, based in Kurashiki, Japan, held an innovative and inspiring event titled 'Okayama EXPO Lab 2025 - Creating the Future of Our Community with the Next Generation.' The initiative was primarily organized by 'OU! EXPO,' a student-led group of SDGs ambassadors keen on revitalizing interest in sustainability amid the ongoing pandemic.

The main goals of the event were to share the knowledge gained from the Osaka-Kansai Expo and to explore the concept of well-being through a fun and engaging lens. Building on the momentum from the previous year's event, 'Okayama EXPO Forum: The Expo and Our Future,' this year’s lab sought to ensure the enthusiasm from the Osaka-Kansai Expo lives on in Okayama rather than fading away. The organizers aimed to provide a platform for the younger generation to vividly envision a future society where everyone can thrive.

Throughout the university’s Tsushima Campus, multiple programs unfolded over two stages as well as an outdoor plaza. A highlight was the participation of renowned Expo enthusiast Atsushi Nikami, who hosted an engaging 'Expo Quiz Contest' to educate attendees about the Expo in an enjoyable way. The opening ceremony featured spirited performances from the Tsushima Elementary School Brass Band, traditional dance showcases from the Asahijuku Elementary School, handbell music from Sanyo Gakuen Middle and High School, and Taiko performances complemented by interactive workshops led by Okayama Gakugeikan High School. In total, more than 15 groups showcased their talents.

Inside the venue, over 20 diverse booths offered rich experiences. Collaboration among various SDGs ambassador-affiliated organizations amplified the event's impact. Visitors could participate in activities such as global culture stamp rallies by 'Global Project,' interactive games by 'Frontier School,' vegetable-based art creation and food quizzes by 'TFT+,' and crafting newspaper bags with 'Nature' as part of their mission to create sustainable solutions.

In addition to these booths, unique workshops celebrated regional culture and resources, including a Tōko (Japanese throwing game) experience organized by Okayama Korakuen, a Pine Cone Tree-making workshop by Kurashiki Suimatsu High School, and an upcycling workshop using discarded denim by Kotosen Co. Specialty exhibits such as VR fire-fighting simulations, liquefaction experiments, and Boccia sessions were carefully curated to engage both children and adults alike in experiencing the future of society.

The outdoor 'Expo Food Area' was abuzz with excitement, featuring eight food trucks offering a delicious variety of local Okayama cuisine, from demikatsu rice bowls and pizzas to sweets like donuts and crepes, creating a festival-like environment reminiscent of the Expo itself.

In the closing ceremony, performances by Okayama University’s affiliated elementary school and the dance club entertained the audience with the Expo theme song 'Continuing Our Planet,' culminating in an all-out dance party that united attendees and staff in an unforgettable celebration.

As the last event organized by the student group 'OU! EXPO,' this gathering offered a poignant conclusion to two years of passionate effort. This initiative began with students directly presenting proposals to the Nihon Keizai Shimbun and evolved into a movement that actively engaged children and communities, supported generously by local businesses and residents.

While the organizational activities of the group come to a close, the connections formed with various generations through the Expo experience and the insights gained by students will have lasting effects. The commitment to a 'well-being future where everyone can shine in their own way' will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who supported the endeavors, inspiring future generations to create their own paths forward.

Okayama University remains dedicated to empowering students in their mission to craft a new future and invites continued support for its innovative initiatives as a core research institution in the community.