#Japan #Osaka #Osaka University #Disaster Prevention #Hoosier Corp

Strengthening Community Resilience Through Collaboration

In a significant move towards enhancing disaster resilience, Osaka Metropolitan University has partnered with Hoosier Corporation in an academic guidance contract. This collaboration focuses on developing disaster prevention strategies tailored to the unique characteristics of local communities. Notable figures such as Professor Kyoko Nomura and Professor Eisuke Ikuta from the university’s Urban Science and Disaster Prevention Research Center, alongside Hoosier Corporation’s President Eiichi Ogawa, are spearheading this initiative.

Objectives of the Partnership

The primary aim of this partnership is to create disaster prevention plans that are not only scientifically robust but also significantly involve the local community in the process. By emphasizing community-based disaster prevention strategies, this collaborative effort seeks to establish a framework where both stakeholders and residents can engage in meaningful dialogue about risk mitigation and preparedness.

Key points of the academic guidance contract include:

• - Designing community-specific disaster prevention plans.
• - Training programs aimed at empowering local residents and stakeholders in disaster prevention.
• - Developing and executing disaster response plans that encourage active participation from the community.

Kick-off Meeting Insights

To officially commence this partnership, a kick-off meeting was held on January 21, 2026. The meeting brought together participants from Osaka Metropolitan University, Hoosier Corporation, and various stakeholders in the water supply park development project. This included representatives from Sumitomo Forestry Green Co., Aeon Town Co., Service Corporation, and Seiritsu Shoko Co. The attendees shared insights into the structure of the disaster prevention program, discussed the challenges faced by stakeholders, and explored collaborative strategies for effective community engagement.

During the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of understanding the specific disaster risks facing the community and how to address them systematically. Participants concluded that identifying local challenges and facilitating community-based solutions would be crucial for the success of the disaster prevention initiatives.

Future Endeavors

The collaboration will continue as both institutions intend to deepen their understanding of disaster prevention in the community, while engaging with resident input and feedback. This project represents a significant step forward in ensuring that residents play an active role in the discussions and implementations of disaster strategies that directly affect their lives.

With a common goal of fostering greater community resilience, Osaka Metropolitan University and Hoosier Corporation will work as partners to advance social development through improved safety and sustainability measures in urban planning.

Company and University Backgrounds

Hoosier Corporation

• - Name: Hoosier Corporation
• - Location: Marunouchi Model Building, 2-2-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Representative: President Eiichi Ogawa
• - Business Overview: Engaging in the development of new residential projects and contributing to urban redevelopment initiatives.
• - Established: December 21, 1994
• - Website: hoosiers.co.jp

Osaka Metropolitan University

• - Name: Osaka Metropolitan University
• - Location: 1-6-85 Morinomiya, Jo-Tōku, Osaka City
• - Representative: Chairman Shinichi Fukushima
• - Established: April 1, 2022 (merging Osaka City University and Osaka Prefectural University)
• - Website: omu.ac.jp

This pioneering project could significantly enhance community preparedness and responsiveness in times of disaster, setting a precedent for future collaborations nationwide.