Fukuoka Institute of Technology has signed a collaboration agreement with Fukuoka Municipal Fukuoka Women's High School and Fukuoka Soko High School (scheduled to open in 2027) to promote digital education, aiming to cooperate in teaching data science and AI as part of high school-university partnerships.
With a growing shortage of digital talent, the Ministry of Education has designated select high schools across Japan as 'DX High Schools'—digital education hubs—to cultivate science and technology talent.
Fukuoka Women's High School was selected in 2025 (Reiwa 7) as one of 20 nationwide under the MEXT 'DX High School Project (Global Focus Category)', emphasizing practical applications of AI and data science in real-world contexts, with the goal of nurturing digitally skilled talent capable of international engagement. Additionally, the school plans to become co-educational in 2027 and reorganize into a comprehensive academic program under the new name 'Fukuoka Soko High School,' enhancing career support programs to help students pursue diverse futures.
Meanwhile, Fukuoka Institute of Technology has implemented practical mathematics, data science, and AI education across all departments, establishing itself as a core institution for digital talent development in Kyushu. In August 2024 (Reiwa 6), it was officially certified by MEXT under the 'Mathematics, Data Science, and AI Education Program (Applied Foundation Level)'.
Under the agreement, Fukuoka Institute of Technology will support Fukuoka Women's High School's comprehensive inquiry courses in information technology by providing teaching assistance and educational materials in AI and data science. The university will also offer guidance on the use of information technology equipment in project-based learning (PBL) activities such as community engagement projects, contributing to the development of digital talent in collaboration with the local community.
Fostering AI and data science talent from Fukuoka, a key Asian hub city.
Despite its long history and tradition, Fukuoka Women's High School is undertaking ambitious and autonomous reforms, transitioning into the co-educational 'Fukuoka Soko High School' with a comprehensive curriculum starting in 2025 (Reiwa 9). The school has been selected for MEXT’s DX High School Project (Global Focus Category), focusing on the practical application of AI and data science to nurture digitally proficient graduates ready for global careers.
As a university with a strong track record in cultivating practical talent in information technology, environmental studies, and engineering, Fukuoka Institute of Technology aims to support this transformation through educational collaboration. Fukuoka City, positioning itself as an Asian hub and advancing growth strategies such as the International Financial City initiative, places high importance on developing human capital to sustain future urban development.
To achieve this, it is essential to cultivate digital literacy, information technology skills, AI and data science competencies, and problem-solving abilities from the high school level. From this perspective, the university aims to support the school’s mission as part of contributing to Fukuoka City’s broader growth strategy. The integration of AI, data science, global perspectives, and inquiry-based learning at Fukuoka Women's and Fukuoka Soko High Schools represents a vital initiative to support Fukuoka’s growth through talent development. As a science and engineering university, Fukuoka Institute of Technology intends to support this effort, particularly in digital technologies, information systems, and data utilization.
Fukuoka Women's High School
Founded in 1925. Guided by the motto 'Independence, Coexistence, Creation,' it has played a central role in women's education in Fukuoka City, producing graduates across diverse fields.
One of the most historically renowned girls' high schools in the prefecture.
Fukuoka Institute of Technology
Founded in 1954. A private university with approximately 4,700 students.
It comprises the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Information Engineering, and Faculty of Social and Environmental Studies, fostering 'practical talent' who integrate human skills with knowledge and technology to contribute to society.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Partnership