【Report】The second session of the FY2025 Glocal Human Resources Development Course, a project commissioned by Mie Prefecture, was held.

　ICETT is holding the "Glocal Human Resource Development Course" over a total of three sessions on behalf of Mie Prefecture. This course aims to broaden the international perspectives of young people who are the future of Mie Prefecture and to develop glocal human resources by providing opportunities for young people associated with Mie Prefecture to enhance their international awareness and sensibilities and to open their eyes to the world.

　This is the second lecture,"Rediscovering Mie's Attractiveness from a Global Perspective: Seeing, Talking, and Realizing Mie's Strength through the Eyes of the World".We are pleased to report that the event was held successfully.

Date: Monday, November 3, 2025 (national holiday) 13:30-16:30

Location: Large Training Room, 5th Floor, Yokkaichi City Local Industry Promotion Center (1-3-18, Yasujima, Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture)

Lecturer: Mr. Masao Kawase, Executive Officer, General Manager of Human Resources Department, Corporate Group, Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.

Participants: 18 participants, including high school and university students and working adults in Mie Prefecture, as well as students from Mie who are attending universities outside the prefecture.

In addition, 5 overseas residents who are active in Mie Prefecture took part in the group work session.

　In the first part of the program, Mr. Kawase from Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., a global company, shared his experience working overseas and talked about the company’s initiatives to address environmental issues, cross-cultural understanding and human resource development, the appeal of Mie Prefecture as perceived through overseas work experience, and the significance and appeal of working for a global company.

　The second part of the program was consisted of group work with overseas residents who are active in Mie Prefecture. After sharing the attractiveness and strengths of Mie Prefecture from overseas perspectives, participants exchanged opinions and engaged in discussions. By learning about the overseas work experiences of those who have worked abroad, as well as the cultures of their home countries and their real-life experiences after coming to Japan, participants deepened their understanding of different cultures.

　During the discussions, a wide range of opinions was shared, including comments such as, “I was surprised at the educational disparity and differences in jobs and culture”, “Mie Prefecture has a rich history and culture, abundant greenery, and is a good place to raise children”, and “Although I once admired living in a big city, I realized that Mie also has many appealing qualities when actually living here”.

　The results of the post-course questionnaire survey revealed many valuable comments from participants. These included feedback related to a renewed appreciation of the attractiveness and strengths of Mie Prefecture, such as “I was able to learn about attractions that are hard to notice because I live in Mie Prefecture”. Other comments reflected deeper understanding of cultural diversity and connections with the world, for example, “I realized that diversity is not about reducing our differences, but about accepting and respecting them”. In addition, participants expressed that they had gained global and 'glocal' perspectives, with comments such as “I felt it is important to understand the differences in employment practices between Japan and other countries”.

　By hearing directly to individuals with overseas work experience at a global company and to overseas residents, the participants gained a valuable opportunity to reflect on their future paths and career development.