Overview of the Top Global University Project

In an age of great change and accelerating internationalization, the “Top Global University Project” adopted presented an opportunity for Keio University to reaffirm its original objectives. Since its foundation, Keio University has adhered to the ideals of learning, and in particular, social contribution through jitsugaku (practical learning) meaning science. To realize these ideals, it has repeatedly undergone the reforms necessary in response to the prevailing economic and social circumstances, and for this project, Keio University raised the idea of “Enhancing Sustainability of Global Society Through Jitsugaku (Science),” focusing its efforts on strengthening its research capacities and the communicability of research outcomes, as well as the training of advanced international personnel.

To maximize Keio’s academic strengths in the fields of the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences from its 10 undergraduate faculties and 14 graduate schools, Keio has created three Global Initiatives: Longevity, which explores issues of longevity, aging, and dementia from life science and medical perspectives, as well as potential applications in robotics, medical policy, and medical economics, for a longer-living and healthier society; Security, which incorporates research on methodologies for managing social systems shaping Society 5.0, analyses on risk society, and East Asian security issues, for a safer and more sustainable society; and Creativity, for the technological developments related to sports and business, and the research associated with cultural and artistic activities. Through these initiatives, Keio is striving to bolster interdisciplinary academic research to solve global-scale problems. We are also actively engaging in collaborations with industry and joint research with overseas partner institutions.

As an important part of the TGU Project, the Keio University Global Research Institute (KGRI) was established in November 2016. KGRI functions as a base to further promote international and interdisciplinary research and education via the three Global Initiatives. With the aim to disseminate its outcomes both domestically and globally as well as to advance further collaborations, KGRI continues to promote a variety of studies, from basic research to those addressing issues of global concern.

Even after the conclusion of the term of MEXT’S financial support, Keio University is working to secure its own financial basis from which to make possible the continuation and development of individual undertakings. From the 2024 academic year, while maintaining the ideals and overall direction of the project, it will continue to draw from its ten years of proven experience to work toward the realization of enhancing the sustainability of global society through jitsugaku.