The environmental NGO Japan for Sustainability (JFS) launched a lecture program named "Daiwa-JFS Youth Sustainability College" on October 30, 2006 in cooperation with Daiwa Securities Group Inc. The aim of the program is to clearly describe and raise awareness of various sustainability-related issues so that the younger generation can take action to enhance the sustainability of society overall. Over 100 keen students, from high school to graduate school level, have joined the program, creating a dynamic learning atmosphere.

The college is supported by donations from Daiwa Securities Co. and Daiwa Asset Management Co. The amount donated is determined by the amount of net assets of an investment trust named the "Daiwa Eco Fund." The course deals with the whole picture of sustainability in a comprehensive and integrated way, including nature, economy, society and personal well-being. Over the four-year program, students get an overview of the connections among the various aspects of sustainability. In addition, topics relating to socially and ecologically conscious financial flows will be introduced, using examples and expertise from the Daiwa Securities Group.

Specialists, including university professors, corporate executives, business persons, members of non-profit and nongovernmental organizations, and government officials, will be invited to give lectures on four themes: "capacity/resources and sustainability," "inter-generational and inter-regional equity," "diversity and sustainability," and "commitment/networking and sustainability." The themes are based on the framework used for "JFS indicators," which provide a quantitative basis to evaluate a sustainable Japan.

The program includes 48 lectures in total (once a month over 4 years). The details of the lectures will be shared through JFS's global community in 187 countries, and as a result, efforts in Japan to promote sustainability can be publicized overseas.



Posted: 2007/01/12 11:08:29 AM
Japanese version

TAG NGO/Citizen , Non-manufacturing industry , System/Law