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Degrees of Change: Japan's Universities Shaping a Global Workforce

BY Bernard Thompson

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As the government aims to welcome 400,000 foreign students, universities are at the center of this effort, balancing tradition with innovation to meet labor shortages and foster cultural integration. They aren't just opening doors to the world; they're creating a blueprint for how education can drive Japan's future growth.

One such institution is the Japan University of Economics (JUE), a private university known for focusing on business and economics. JUE's president, Asuka Tsuzuki, emphasizes the school's commitment to helping foreign students integrate into Japanese society. "Our idea is to nurture them into people who can contribute to Japanese society," Tsuzuki says. JUE combines English-language programs with Japanese-centric courses, preparing students to enter the workforce with both local and global business knowledge. "We want them to merge into and become active in Japan," he adds. This approach tackles Japan's labor shortage by equipping students with the skills needed for the job market.

Kanazawa University, a prestigious national university with a strong background in arts and sciences, takes a broader approach. Known for its focus on internationalization and diversity, Kanazawa is a leader in promoting cultural exchange. "Universities' role is to nurture creative and diverse human resources," says President Takashi Wada. With students from more than 80 countries, Kanazawa is helping Japan become more globally competitive by fostering a campus environment where "global is the norm." This focus on diversity prepares students not only for Japan's workforce but for the globalized world.

Kansai Gaidai University, located in the Kansai region, is famous for its language and international studies programs. Its chancellor, Eiko Tanimoto, emphasizes the need to address Japan's language gap. "The biggest obstacle for foreign residents to be integrated into Japanese society is the language," Tanimoto explains. Kansai Gaidai tackles this by offering programs in Japanese as a second language, supporting both students and residents in becoming more integrated into society. This focus on language and intercultural communication is key to helping Japan attract and retain international talent.

"We must overcome this language barrier," says Akira Kurosaka, president of Kyoto Sangyo University—an institution located in one of Japan's most iconic cities with a strong focus on the sciences, particularly space and life sciences. Whilst Kurosaka acknowledges the importance of English-language programs, he believes STEM education is particularly key to attracting international students. Leveraging its strengths in science and creating globally accessible courses, Kyoto Sangyo is positioning itself as a leader in attracting international talent.

Kindai University, one of Japan's largest private institutions, is known for its emphasis on innovation. The university excels in fields like biotechnology and sustainable agriculture. President Itaru Matsumura notes the challenge of retaining international graduates in Japan's workforce, with only 30 percent finding employment after graduation. "We're working to create stronger pathways between education and industry," he says. By improving international graduates' job prospects, Kindai hopes to attract more foreign students and help fill labor shortages.

Japan's universities aren't just responding to the country's demographic challenges—they're actively shaping its future. By equipping Japanese and international students with the skills needed for a globalized economy, these institutions are crafting solutions to labor shortages and helping to create a more diverse, innovative society. As Japan works toward its target of 400,000 foreign students, universities like JUE, Kanazawa, Kansai Gaidai, Kindai and Kyoto Sangyo are fostering a brighter, more globally connected future. Through education, Japan's universities are driving the transformation the country needs.

This article has been provided by The Worldfolio as part of Newsweek*'s Sponsored Content series. The views and opinions expressed are those of the sponsor and are not necessarily those of* Newsweek and should not be considered an endorsement of the products, services or persons mentioned. Newsweek assumes no liability for reliance on the information provided.

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