#Japan #Tokyo #Caregiving #SOMPO Care #Skill Drive

Overview of Skill Drive

In February 2026, SOMPO Care Inc., based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, will launch a comprehensive talent development program named 'Skill Drive'. This initiative aims to tackle the pressing issues of workforce shortages and retention challenges in the Japanese caregiving sector. Leveraging the expertise from SOMPO Care University, a pioneering in-house educational institution, the program strives to cultivate skilled individuals who will contribute to the future of the caregiving industry.

Background of the Program

The caregiving industry in Japan faces a significant shortage of qualified personnel, exacerbated by a declining working-age population. Many caregiving organizations recognize the importance of training their staff but encounter difficulties such as a lack of time and resources for training, unutilized training knowledge in daily operations, and challenges in deciding on investment in employee development. Thus, there is a growing demand for practical, impactful training that aligns with operational duties without overwhelming the organization's resources.

SOMPO Care has pioneered various initiatives to address these concerns, including the establishment of SOMPO Care University, which emphasizes the importance of talent development. Furthermore, the launch of the online campus allows staff to access learning materials anytime and anywhere. Through the introduction of 'Skill Drive', SOMPO Care aims to share its successful training methodologies to assist in resolving the challenges faced by the caregiving industry.

Components of Skill Drive

The 'Skill Drive' program integrates four key elements designed to facilitate continuous learning in caregiving:

1. Skill Note: This assessment tool visualizes individual skills, fostering both personal and organizational growth. By identifying current and needed skills, it motivates staff to pursue their professional development actively. Management also benefits, as they can track employees' learning progress and support their career development effectively.

2. Video Training (e-Learning): Offering a wide range of video training options accessible via smartphones or PCs, this component includes statutory training and specialized courses for caregiving professionals, as well as programs tailored for management and dementia care. Staff can engage with the materials at their convenience, regardless of their location.

3. Online Live Training: This feature complements the e-learning modules by providing interactive, live training sessions using Zoom. Customized for external participants, these sessions cover a diverse array of topics ranging from specialized caregiving knowledge to essential business skills.

4. Practical Caregiving Training: Conducted at SOMPO Care University’s campuses in Shibaura and Osaka, this hands-on training takes place in simulated environments that reflect real caregiving settings. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants gain practical skills essential for effective caregiving.

The program's name, 'Skill Drive', symbolizes the powerful motivation to enhance employees' skills ('Skill') while also embodying the drive to foster intrinsic energy for self-directed learning and behavioral change. By facilitating these aspects, the program ultimately aims to cultivate a culture of continuous growth among caregivers, enabling them to achieve their goals.

Future Aspirations

Through the introduction of 'Skill Drive', SOMPO Care seeks to equip caregiving organizations with effective tools to overcome their talent development challenges, ultimately creating an environment where each caregiver can shine as a professional. The commitment to transforming Japanese caregiving aligns with SOMPO Care’s vision of contributing positively to the sustainability of the industry, thereby shaping the future of caregiving and society as a whole.