Professor MASUKAWA Koichi of the Center for Collaborative Study with Community, Gifu University received 'Social Education Merit Award' ('Commendation by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan').

The 'Social Education Merit Award' is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the promotion of social education in their local communities over many years. It also recognizes those who have diligently worked to advance social education through organizational activities related to social education on a national scale. Professor Masukawa served as the chairman of the Gifu Prefectural Council for Social Education for many years and his long-term contributions to the promotion of social education in the local community resulted in his accepting the 'Social Education Merit Award' by the government.

On Monday, February 19, 2024, Professor Masukawa visited the Office of President to report his award to President YOSHIDA Kazuhiro.

In his meeting with the President, Professor Masukawa stated, "I am grateful that my work at Gifu University has helped me mature as an educator, and my dedication to the advancement of social education has earned me the award this time."

President Yoshida congratulated him on his award and said, "I hope Professor Masukawa continues to work with the local community and contribute to promoting various social educational activities in the days to come."

Gifu University continues its efforts to become a central academic hub within the community for the realization of regional revitalization.