[Okayama University] Cultivating R&D Management Talent to Create New Value from 'Knowledge': Kick-off Meeting Held for Training Program Utilizing the Okayama University URA Model

Okayama University (Headquarters: Kita-ku, Okayama City; President: Tomohiro Nasu) held a kick-off meeting for the 'Development of R&D Management Personnel' project on May 19, 2026, at the Co-Creation Innovation Lab (KIBINOVE) on the Tsushima Campus in a hybrid format. The meeting was held to reaffirm the mission and align the perspectives of stakeholders as the university prepares to accept trainees from partner institutions starting this October, following its selection for the MEXT project (implemented by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science) in fiscal year 2025. In his opening remarks, President Tomohiro Nasu stated, 'Our selection for this project is a testament to the achievements Okayama University has accumulated over many years. While transforming our accumulated knowledge into something we can teach others may seem burdensome at first, systematizing our experiences for others leads to our own growth. It is an opportunity to strengthen our organization and build new partnerships, so I encourage everyone to engage with this project wholeheartedly.' Subsequently, the university administration explained the project overview and schedule, while program managers detailed the training curriculum. Information gathered from partner institutions in collaboration with Osaka University last year was also shared. Participants then brainstormed efficient training methods and strategies for future self-sustainability. At the conclusion of the meeting, Norihito Sato, Vice Executive Director (Research and Industry-Academia Co-Creation), Vice President (Academic Affairs), and Senior URA, stated, 'We will take President Nasu's words to heart and ensure we deliver the intended project outcomes. Organizational and personnel transformation is crucial, and linking this with our ongoing J-PEAKS initiatives will be highly effective. Let us continue to refine this program to ensure it provides significant value.' Through this project, the university aims to foster 'knowledge workers' capable of creating new value from knowledge, thereby contributing to social transformation. By utilizing the 'Okayama University URA Model,' which positions URAs not merely as support staff but as strategic research brains for the university's executive leadership, the program will facilitate a shift in mindset at participating universities and contribute to the transformation of both people and organizations.