Course of Regional Development Studies

 　Since the beginning of the 21st century, developing countries, especially in Asia and Africa, have made remarkable economic progress. At the same time, however, the traditional problems of conflict and poverty continue to overshadow these countries.  Under these circumstances, the relationship between developed and developing countries is steadily changing from a one-way relationship between donors and recipients of aid to one of mutual cooperation.  Our Course of Regional Development Studies welcomes those who are willing to join the field and tackle various local issues in a world that is diversifying and undergoing dynamic changes.

 　Based on specialized fields such as economics, sociology, engineering, political science, and anthropology, our course trains students to become experts in solving various regional problems on the ground and in developing and enhancing the attractiveness of the region. Many of our students conduct research in fields related to community development and regional development, and aim to realize “regional development” and its sustainable development by utilizing regional characteristics and resources while maintaining harmony with the environment. We hope that the results of such research will lead to various forms of international cooperation and the practice of rural and urban development in Japan and abroad.

 　　In today's borderless society that transcends national boundaries, mere familiarity with a particular field is not enough to make one an effective human resource in the field of community development practice. This course promotes research on various problems in all regions, including developed and developing countries, Japan and abroad, urban and rural areas, etc. Students are expected to develop analytical skills beyond specific area of expertise in the field. We hope that students will develop analytical skills that transcend their specific area of expertise as they conduct research in the field. Our course has many faculty members who are able to meet such research needs.

 “Community development” is not like “drawing freely on a blank canvas.”  There are “no specific methods” in solving local problems. We must accept the problems that are piling up before us, and while respecting the history and culture of the region, we must steadily build up results one by one, like unraveling a tangled string.  We extend a warm welcome to all of you who wish to acquire such “expertise” with “on the ground” capabilities.