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Message from the Director

 

Kazushi Takahashi

The world in the 21st century is seeing both bright opportunities for human society and uncertainty and risk which could lead to catastrophic crises. The rise of emerging economies has been an important driver of the growth of the world economy; at the same time, however, it has also widened economic disparities within those countries, and created serious conflicts of interest between them and their neighbors (both developed countries and developing countries) over territorial issues, energy resources, and environmental problems. In addition, the advancement of globalization has deepened the interdependence of the world, to the point where now an event or crisis in one country can have an unprecedented impact on the entire world.

In order to overcome such crises and conflicts of interest, it is essential to have (1) solid analytical skills, to be able to accurately identify the root causes of problems and determine their essence by examining those problems from various angles; (2) leadership skills, particularly the ability to present and implement effective prescriptions for the resolution of issues, and to frame a vision of the manner in which each issue might play out; and (3) communications skills for the precise articulation of one's views in a way that transcends differences in dimensions including language, culture, history, religion, ethnicity, and nationality.

In a world facing such major changes and uncertainties, this program aims to nurture leaders of leaders, top leaders who have both the will and the ability to participate in the formation of a new world and a new regional order, and who can play leadership roles in their respective fields. The main targets of the program are mid-career leadership candidates in a wide variety of fields, including both those involved in national politics and government, and management personnel and media personnel from companies operating on the global stage.

During the course works, the students are required to take intensive courses in fields including political science, economics, and history, so as to acquire advanced knowledge of specific fields and the analytical skills essential for the work toward a doctoral degree. After passing the Qualifying Exams, the students concentrate on research, analysis, and the writing of their dissertations, aiming to obtain their degree. The program also provides unique small tutorial-style classes to cultivate the skills in problem analysis, leadership, and communication required in this degree program, along with the ability to perceive the big picture, a key attribute of every top leader.

We welcome students who wish to become top leaders of the next generation, individuals with strong will, cool heads, and warm hearts.