On May 7, Okayama University, in cooperation with the Okayama Association of Corporate Executives, held a roundtable discussion at Shibuya QWS in Tokyo with a 12-member delegation from Finland. The delegation included representatives from Aalto University, the student-run entrepreneurship organization Aalto Entrepreneurship Society (Aaltoes), startups originating from Aaltoes, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, and Enter Espoo Ltd., the innovation support agency of the City of Espoo.

From Okayama University, 12 members took part, including six students and six faculty and staff members, such as President NASU Yasutomo and Vice Executive President KANO Mitsunobu. In addition, seven representatives from six companies belonging to the Okayama Association of Corporate Executives, including Co-Chairs KAJITANI Shunsuke and NAKASHIMA Yoshio, participated in the event.

Students from Okayama University who spoke directly with the student entrepreneurs from Aalto University shared their impressions: "It was an experience that changed my perspective on life," and "It gave me an opportunity to think about the possibilities of entrepreneurship and social contribution." From the Finnish side, feedback included: "From the moment we met at the venue, we hit it off and had active exchanges of ideas. The meeting, which lasted over three hours, was filled with enthusiasm and generated several concrete ideas for collaboration. We strongly felt the affinity between Finland and Okayama due to their positive attitude and flexible thinking. We want to cherish this encounter and deepen our partnership going forward."

Okayama University is now exploring the possibility of hosting a Junction Hackathon in Okayama, a globally recognized development event where teams of students and young engineers collaborate intensively over a short period to turn ideas into reality. These activities aim to further foster creativity and hands-on skills among students through student-led initiatives.

Furthermore, the University, in collaboration with the Okayama Association of Corporate Executives, is also considering the development of new joint programs with Aalto University that support creativity education and professional training.

This roundtable meeting was also conducted as part of the Cabinet Office’s FY2024 “Regional Core University Innovation Creation Enhancement Program”.

Reference Information:
Aalto University is a leading Finnish international university that offers innovative, interdisciplinary education in science, business, art, design, and engineering. Guided by the concept of "Radical Creativity," Aalto is actively engaged in education and research that addresses sustainability and social challenges. Its student-led startup community Aaltoes is globally active in entrepreneurship, while its practice-based education, exemplified by the Design Factory, and its internationally oriented executive education initiatives have earned wide recognition.

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is a non-profit state research institute specializing in applied research. It plays a key role in innovation through collaboration with companies and universities, supported by advanced infrastructure for experimental research. VTT contributes across a broad range of fields, including quantum technology, biotechnology, digital health, and the circular economy.

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