FY2026 First Training Session for Coordinators of Community-School Collaboration
On Tuesday, June 23, Gifu University hosted the FY 2026 First Training Session for Coordinators of Community-School Collaboration online. The session is part of the human resource development programs undertaken by the Gifu Center for collaborative activities between communities and schools (GIFU CCCS).
GIFU CCCS is an organization jointly established by the Gifu Prefectural government and Gifu University. Its mission is to support and promote community-school collaboration activities, fostering the growth of children through the involvement of the entire community while also revitalizing local communities through these activities. GIFU CCCS operates in three key areas: human resource development and recruitment, research, and promotion and dissemination.
As part of its human resource development and recruitment efforts, GIFU CCCS conducts four training workshops each year. These workshops provide individuals involved in community-school collaboration activities with opportunities to learn fundamental knowledge and practical methods. This year, 86 participants registered for the program, including Coordinators of Community-School Collaboration, individuals expected to assume such positions in the future, and graduates of the Gifu Prefecture Child-Rearing Support Training Program.
The first session began with opening remarks by Mr. HIRAKU Masayuki, Director of Lifelong Learning Planning Division from the Gifu Prefectural Government, followed by an explanation from Professor MASUKAWA Koichi of Gifu University on GIFU CCCS's activities and the objectives of the training programs.
The main lecture, titled "The Mindset and Skills of a Coordinator," was delivered by Dr. Dr. HIROSE Takahito, Representative Director of Tochigi Civic Collaboration Research Association / Professor Emeritus at Utsunomiya University and Hokkaido University of Education. While emphasizing that the nature of community-school collaboration activities varies depending on local circumstances and available human resources, and that the role of coordinators also differs according to local conditions, Dr. Hirose introduced practical examples illustrating how coordinators can engage with schools and communities and support collaborative activities.
Following the lecture, participants were divided into groups for discussion and exchange of ideas. They shared their impressions of the lecture from their respective perspectives and engaged in lively discussions about their local practices, challenges, and experiences.
During the question-and-answer session, participants raised numerous questions, including how to ensure sustainability when activities tend to become dependent on specific individuals. Dr. Hirose suggested that forming a team of coordinators can help avoid problems associated with overreliance on a single person. Drawing on practical examples, he explained both the benefits and challenges of this approach. Participants also exchanged opinions on topics such as effectively utilizing local human resources, collaborating with private-sector organizations, designing activities in anticipation of population decline, and building relationships with relevant administrative departments. The session provided valuable learning opportunities for all attendees.
The next training workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, August 25. We hope that participants will apply what they learned in this workshop and continue to play increasingly active roles in their respective communities.
