News
First Projects Selected for the Problem-Solving Program
The first support projects of the 2024 Internship-Based Problem-Solving Program have been selected.
The Internship-Based Problem-Solving Program is one of the initiatives supported by the APU Alumni Association Support Change Makers Fund. In this program, students independently formulate questions to address global issues and collaborate with companies or NGOs/NPOs founded by alumni to conduct research. Selected projects receive financial support of up to 500,000 yen from the fund.
The inaugural call for applications ran from October 7 (Monday) to October 31 (Thursday), 2024, resulting in seven applications. Of these, two proposals passed the document screening stage and advanced to the final presentations held on November 26 (Tuesday).
During the presentations, both proposals that passed the document screening were highly evaluated for "accurately understanding the program’s objectives and aligning with its purpose," and both were selected for the program.
The projects will be conducted by current students and alumni over a period ending in late July 2025. The selected students will compile a final report and host a presentation event to share their findings.
Selected Projects and Message from Participants
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Group Name: Lifewings
Project Theme: Empowering Children’s Future
Project Overview:
This project aims to create a world where children can live fulfilling lives with dreams and hopes. Focusing on "dreams" as a key element of the strength needed to thrive in the future, the project investigates and analyzes the factors behind this concept. Field research will be conducted at YouMe School in Nepal, founded by alumni mentor Rai Sharad (College of Asia Pacific Studies, Spring 2011 Graduate, Nepal), as well as at elementary or junior high schools in Japan for comparative analysis. Ultimately, the project seeks to provide insights to help build a brighter future.Project Members:
Maho Setoguchi (Representative), College of Sustainability and Tourism, Japan
Mayu Tamura, College of Sustainability and Tourism, Japan
Ayaka Watanabe, College of Sustainability and Tourism, JapanMessage for the accepted students:
"Our vision is to create a world where children can live fulfilling lives with dreams and hopes. To achieve this, we will explore the factors behind children’s 'strength to thrive,' focusing on dreams through education, aiming to build a world that excites and inspires children who will shape the future." -
Group Name: TOMOSU
Project Theme: Beppu Harmony Project
Project Overview:
With support from alumni mentor Yana Ono (College of Asia Pacific Studies, Spring 2008 Graduate, Ukraine), who assists Ukrainian refugees residing in Beppu City, the project will survey the current needs of Ukrainian refugees. Based on the survey results, cultural exchange events and storytelling sessions will be held to support their adaptation to life in Japan.Project Member:
ZIAUDDIN DZILMI YUSUF (Representative), College of International Management, IndonesiaMessage for the accepted students:
This project excites me because it’s not just about helping refugees, but it’s about creating life changing experiences for everyone involved. The "Beppu Harmony Project" gives Ukrainian refugees the tools and support they need to start fresh, while offering students an incredible opportunity to make a real difference. I can’t wait to see the friendships, understanding, and growth that will come from this program. It’s inspiring to think that together we’re building a community where everyone can learn, share, and thrive. I’m thrilled to be part of something so meaningful, and I believe this project can set an example for the world.
