The symposium followed discussions from workshops held in August and October last year. It officially marked the launch of the Fukui Alliance, a platform designed to foster talent that supports the region and promotes the local retention of international students.

The event opened with remarks from Prof. NAGAI Takahiro, Vice President for International Affairs and Global Strategy and Director of the IGE. This was followed by a congratulatory address from Mr. Masazumi Uwafuji, Director of the Labor Policy Division of the Fukui Prefectural Government.

“We expect international students who have studied at Japanese universities to contribute significantly to the economic development of our prefecture with their high level of knowledge and global perspectives,” Mr. Uwafuji stated. “The Prefecture intends to work with the Fukui Alliance members to expand this wonderful initiative, hoping that as many international students as possible will join local companies and flourish as talented professionals within Fukui.”

Prof. SHIMADA Kazuhisa, Head of Department of Global Networking at IGE, explained the background and objectives of the Fukui Alliance. This was followed by a panel discussion titled “How to Create a Region Where Foreign Nationals Can Thrive.” Five distinguished panelists from various sectors shared their experiences regarding their career paths, professional values, and expectations for highly skilled foreign talent:

• Ms. Tomoko Itsuki (Ehime University)
• Ms. Khushi Jhaveri (EdYou Japan)
• Ms. Cinzia Coden (Fukui Megane Industry Co., Ltd.)
• Mr. Mathieu Martin (Hironen Co., Ltd.)
• Mr. Yoshiyuki Makishima (The Fukui Bank, Ltd.)

The session provided valuable insights into the realities of working in Japan and stimulated an active Q&A session, fostering a shared sense of momentum for welcoming international talent into the community.

While the Fukui Alliance has just begun its journey, its mission is to create a Fukui where diverse foreign talent can succeed in a variety of fields. We look forward to the continued participation and cooperation of stakeholders and local residents.

Moving forward, the Alliance will plan creative projects in a free and open atmosphere, focusing on the development of human resources who will sustain the region’s future. Membership in the Fukui Alliance is free of charge. We welcome registrations from companies, organizations, and government bodies interested in participating in our projects and events.

This project is supported by the Fukui Prefecture Future Collaborative Platform.