KOSEN Graduates May Soon Receive Academic Degrees as MEXT Considers Policy Change — Webinar on June 15 to Explore How Alumni Advocacy Turned 'We Can't Get Visas...' into a National Movement

Shireru Inc., a company developing Japan's official primary information platform (Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture; CEO: Mikan Yamada), will host an online webinar titled 'KOSEN Graduates May Receive Academic Degrees as MEXT Considers Reform — From "We Can't Get Visas..." to a National Movement: Uncovering the Campaign That Moved MEXT' on June 15, 2026.

KOSEN Undergraduate Graduates Deserve Degrees — Alumni Movement Reaches a Turning Point

The 'Associate Degree' awarded to KOSEN undergraduate graduates has long been recognized only as a title, not an academic degree, making it difficult for graduates to obtain visas for overseas study or employment. On June 7, 2026, the Yomiuri Shimbun reported that MEXT is considering granting official degrees to KOSEN graduates, marking a pivotal moment for this long-standing issue.

Behind this development lies the persistent and passionate advocacy by alumni (OBOG) over the past two years. How did they raise their voices, mobilize support, and ultimately influence national policy?

This webinar will feature Mr. Shigemaru Nishiyama and Mr. Takaaki Takashima from Human Network KOSEN, who led the campaign, to unpack the 'grassroots lobbying efforts' that drove this policy consideration.

Event Overview

KOSEN Graduates May Receive Academic Degrees as MEXT Considers Reform

— From "We Can't Get Visas..." to a National Movement: Uncovering the Campaign That Moved MEXT —

Date and Time: June 15, 2026 (Mon) 20:00–20:50 JST

Format: Online (Zoom)

Organizer: Shireru Inc.

Participation Fee: Free

Registration URL: https://shireru-pr-20260615.peatix.com/

Program

Opening & Self-Introduction

The Campaign That Began with Voices from KOSEN Alumnae

Case Collection and Datafication

Consolidating Arguments and Expanding Understanding

Hopes for the Future of KOSEN

Speakers

Shigemaru Nishiyama (Human Network KOSEN)

Takaaki Takashima (Human Network KOSEN)

This webinar is not limited to KOSEN affiliates. The process of citizens raising their voices, backing claims with data, building networks, and influencing government is a universal model applicable to any social issue. We invite everyone who wishes to make society better to join this important discussion.

About Shireru Inc.

Shireru Inc. specializes in public relations and public affairs support for local governments and public institutions, as well as startups and regional SMEs. Through press release support, media relations, and PR talent development, the company supports information dissemination that connects government with citizens and society.

Company Name: Shireru Inc.

Headquarters: Wizard Building 402, 1-4-3 Asamacho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture

CEO: Mikan Yamada

Founded: August 2023

URL: https://shireru.jp/