Greetings from the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, University President

Moritake Tomikawa

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees University President

Nurturing strong human resources with sophisticated understanding of the local and international communities

　Okinawa International University's philosophy of education is to "value the traditions, culture, and environment of Okinawa, and strive to create scholarship and culture that leads to the peaceful coexistence of humankind." Our aim is to "cultivate broad-minded and unique individuals, promote local autonomy, and contribute to the development of international society." Okinawa has a distinct history and culture, and with developing interest in Okinawa Studies, this southernmost prefecture of Japan has been garnering much attention as the focus of academic research.

　Within the field of regional studies, a region may be defined as a limited land area with specific shared characteristics, including diversity. Each region prossesses various kinds of "soft power" based on its climate, history, and culture. The concept of "soft power" was first used in the field of political science by Harvard University professor Joseph Nye, who argued that a country can "attract people with its culture, foreign policies, history, and nature." Rather than reliance on the "hard power" of military force, the use of "soft power" paves the way for conflict resolution through diplomacy and cultural understanding. Countries in Asia, which includes Okinawa, are believed to possess attractive storehouses of "soft power" that can lead to peace and development.

　In an attempt to radically reform the Japan of the so-called "lost decade" of the 1990's, a project named "Innovation Japan" was created in consultation with the government. The key to Japan's revitalization is quite clear. An advanced nation can continue to develop only by addressing a wide range of needs in the areas of health, security, environment, and education.

　The idea of "Innovation Japan" is that utilization of the academic achievements of universities in responding to these needs promotes the development of new businesses and the opening of new frontiers. The "soft power" necessary to respond to these needs is inherent in Okinawa's nature, history, and culture.

　Having suffered the ravages of war, Okinawa shares much in common with countries in Asia that have been victimized. This puts Okinawa in a unique position to contribute to peace and security in the region by serving as a sort of "Geneva of Asia," a political buffer that defuses discord between nations. During the era the Ryukyu Kingdom, Okinawa's ancestors established international networks with Korea, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Learning from that history, Okinawa can once again become an important crossroad in Asia that contributes to the security and development of all countries in the region, as well as the United States and Japan.

　Academic study exists to improve the quality of human life. But the knowledge humankind has accumulated since the dawn of time cannot be comprehended within a lifespan, even one of a hundred years. Academic study is a sort of concentrated form of knowledge that allows us to digest the accumulated wisdom of the ages, apply it to our lives, and pass it on to future generations. Through history, humankind has faced numerous crises, but these challenges have been conquered through wisdom that is rooted in academic study.

　Academic study enhances one's life on the personal level as well. We all face numerous crises in our lives, but the strength and resources to overcome these problems derive from our accumulated wisdom and knowledge.

　The pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty in life through education can allow us to inspire others, enjoy our lives, and find our life purpose.

　Studying in Okinawa has the advantage of providing both an international perspective and insight into a unique community and region. Such an education can lead to one's personal development and inspire one to pursue ambitious dreams. Okinawa International University is committed to nurturing students that wll be able to Lead meaningful and productive lives by providing them with the most up-to-date and practical knowledge in their chosen fields and the confidence to make the best decisios in creating a bright future.