NTT East, Minerva University (USA), and Minerva Japan, a general incorporated association, signed a collaboration agreement on Monday, the 8th. The agreement aims to co-create a new educational model aimed at cultivating the next generation of global leaders who can contribute to solving complex social issues facing the world. Through this agreement, the three parties will build a practical educational model that combines real-world experiences from across Japan with cutting-edge technologies such as generative AI, and promote the development of global leaders who will pave the way for the future.

Minerva University has international students from approximately 100 countries, accounting for 90% of its student body. The university has been selected as one of the “World’s Most Innovative Universities” by a United Nations-affiliated organization for the fourth consecutive year since 2022. Classes are conducted online and can be taken from anywhere in the world. During their four years of study, students travel to major cities around the world and participate in a “rotation program” in which they engage in project-based learning and internships in collaboration with local companies, nonprofits, government agencies, and research institutions.
In Japan, NTT East will leverage its regional network and expertise in implementing technology in society to jointly design on-site experiential learning programs rooted in Japan’s social challenges. The first program will be set in Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture, and will provide Minerva University students with a disaster prevention and reconstruction program.

NTT East President and CEO Naoki Shibuya stated, “We will create a successful model for a regional recycling-oriented society with Minerva University. We want to make this model useful to society as a whole by utilizing ICT and digital technologies. The most important thing is to develop talent who can bring about future social innovation. Our company is currently promoting inquiry-based learning in elementary, junior high, and high schools under a commission from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. By working with Minerva University, we hope to develop an environment in Japan where we can jointly develop talent who can bring about global innovation.” He also stated, “This agreement is not a closed one. By connecting with various universities and companies across Japan and globally and making successful models of a regional recycling-oriented society open, we hope to create a collective impact on Japan and the world as a whole and create a truly sustainable society.” Minerva University President Mike McGee said, “NTT East and Minerva University have formed this partnership because we are both heading in the same direction. Minerva University is also committed to building a resilient society. NTT East is an ideal partner, and we look forward to growing in various fields and collaborating not only in Japan but internationally as well.”

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