Gifu University and Mie University Establish the Education Alliance San-Gi to Address Educational Challenges
On July 28, 2026, Tokai National Higher Education and Research System (THERS) and Mie University held a press conference announcing the establishment of general incorporated association "Education Alliance San-Gi." The alliance was founded through collaboration between the Faculty of Education at Mie University and the Faculty of Education at Gifu University, with the aim of contributing to regional development through teacher training, and the promotion of local culture.
The press conference was attended by THERS Chancellor MATSUO Seiichi, President YOSHIDA Kazuhiro of Gifu University, President ITO Masaaki of Mie University and other representatives, who explained the background behind the establishment of the organization and its future vision.
In recent years, educational issues facing schools have become increasingly diverse and complex. These challenges include declining birthrates, teacher shortages, enhancement of special needs education, support for students with school attendance difficulties, and adaptation to educational practices incorporating ICT and generative AI. In addition, Gifu and Mie Prefectures share common educational concerns, such as providing support for children with international backgrounds and addressing the needs of remote and small-scale schools. In response to these circumstances, the two universities have decided to combine their respective strengths and educational resources and work together to tackle regional educational challenges.
Through the Education Alliance San-Gi, the universities will promote exchanges among students, faculty, and staff, while sharing educational resources to strengthen and advance their teacher training functions. During fiscal year 2026, the alliance aims to obtain certification from the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) as a University Collaboration Promotion Corporation1. Furthermore, in fiscal year 2028, the alliance plans to launch a Collaborative Teacher Education Program2 in the subjects of Home Economics, Art, Technology, Geography and History, and Civics. This initiative will provide richer learning opportunities through classes and experiential learning activities that make use of faculty members and facilities from both universities.
At the press conference, President Yoshida stated: "The Education Alliance San-Gi is not merely a partnership between universities. It is a new challenge in which Gifu and Mie join forces to support the future of children in our region." He also expressed his expectations for the advancement of teacher education through collaboration that extends beyond prefectural boundaries.
President Ito of Mie University commented: "By combining the expertise of both universities, we hope to create new educational value and contribute to solving educational challenges in our communities." He further indicated that the alliance aims to contribute not only to the Tokai region but also to the advancement of teacher education throughout Japan.
The two universities will continue to strengthen cooperation through the Education Alliance San-Gi, focusing on the development of highly qualified teachers, deepening collaboration with local communities, and enhancing educational environments that support the learning of children who will shape the future.
1),2) English name is tentative
(Dean SAKAMOTO Kazuya of the Faculty of Education)
Chancellor Matsuo, President Ito, President Yoshida, and Dean Sakamoto
