FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus Signs High School-University Collaboration Agreement with Co-Innovation University (CoIU)

FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus (located in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, Academy Director Takeshi Okada) has signed a 'High School-University Collaboration Agreement' with Co-Innovation University (CoIU) on June 5, 2026.

The agreement aims to establish continuous collaboration between high school and university, supporting each student’s inquiry activities and self-directed learning, while cultivating essential future-ready skills such as 'the ability to formulate questions' and 'the ability to co-create'.

Moving forward, new learning opportunities connecting high school and university will be created through inquiry support programs, university visits, and classroom experiences.

From left in the photo: Prof. Akira Takagi, President of CoIU; Mr. Shota Tsuji, Principal of FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus; and Prof. Hiroaki Miyata, Co-Representative Director of Co-Innovation Ecosystem and Special Advisor to CoIU.

◯ Background of the Agreement

Our school promotes education based on its founding philosophy: 'Questioning the essence of life to sustain life itself,' encouraging each student to raise personal and societal questions and explore them through real-world practice in the community.

In an era of unpredictable and rapid change, it is increasingly important not only to acquire knowledge and skills but also to cultivate the ability to formulate one’s own questions and continue learning through collaboration with diverse others.

CoIU’s educational approach—centered on 'learning starting from questions' and 'shuttling between theory, dialogue, and practice'—deeply resonates with our school’s vision. Strongly aligned in educational philosophy and talent development goals, we have decided to formalize this partnership to further expand learning and growth opportunities for every student.

◯ Key Initiatives: Fostering Learning Across High School, University, and Community

Under this agreement, the following initiatives will be implemented:

■ Inquiry Support Programs
Utilizing CoIU’s inquiry-based programs and visiting lectures to support student research activities.

■ University Visits and Classroom Experiences
Students will visit CoIU’s Hida Campus to observe classes and interact with university students.

■ Access to CoIU’s High School-University Admission Pathway
Students from our school will be eligible to apply through CoIU’s unique high school-university admission system.

■ Participation in Cross-School Learning Programs
Exploring participation in joint projects, student exchanges, and teacher training programs with other schools in the CoIU network.

◯ Comment from Prof. Akira Takagi, President of Co-Innovation University

'We view this agreement not only as a bridge between high school and university, but as a crucial step toward cultivating a society-wide culture of 'learning from questions.' The ability to ask questions and co-create value through dialogue with diverse people does not suddenly emerge upon university entry—it must be nurtured during high school. The schools joining this initiative are all pioneers in their regions, believing in each student’s potential and embracing innovative education. As a university, we aim to co-create learning environments where students can deepen their inquiries and shape their futures. Starting from this agreement, we will expand a collaborative network across schools, universities, and communities to support the next generation of changemakers.'

◯ Comment from Mr. Shota Tsuji, Principal of FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus

'The learning model centered on 'co-creation' promoted by CoIU strongly aligns with our school’s educational values. During our visit to Hida, we were deeply impressed by how each CoIU student articulates their learning and future aspirations in their own words, despite the university being newly established. Meeting like-minded high schools from across Japan was also a valuable experience. We are delighted to connect with fellow educators who share our vision of reimagining and practicing the future of education beyond regional and institutional boundaries.

At FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus, we value students raising their own questions and learning through real challenges in society and the community. Through this collaboration, we hope our students will interact with CoIU students, faculty, and practitioners, enabling them to more proactively shape their learning paths and career choices.

Going forward, we will deepen mutual understanding of our educational practices and jointly explore new models of learning for the future, advancing collaboration that supports student growth.'

■ About Co-Innovation University (CoIU)

Co-Innovation University (CoIU), operated by the CoIU School Corporation, is a four-year university located in Hida City, Gifu Prefecture.

Centered on cultivating 'the ability to ask questions' and 'co-creative capacity,' CoIU fosters collaborative problem-solving among students, faculty, and community members through a learning model that cycles between local practice, diverse theories, and dialogue. With the Hida-Takayama region as its primary field, CoIU operates satellite campuses nationwide. Through closely linked educational and research programs, it aims to nurture next-generation talent and contribute to regional development.

University Name: Co-Innovation University (CoIU)

Operator: CoIU School Corporation

Established: April 2026

Special Advisor: Hiroaki Miyata

Chairperson: Hiromichi Inoue

President: Akira Takagi
Faculty and Department: Faculty of Co-Innovation, Department of Regional Co-Creation

Address: 11-15 Konamori-cho, Furukawa, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture

Website: https://coiu.ac.jp/

■ About FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus

FC Imabari High School Satoyama Campus is a private high school in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, aiming to cultivate the next generation of leaders with 'Historic Captaincy'—a new leadership style characterized by initiative, independent thinking, and mutual support. The school has established a unique curriculum emphasizing practical learning and real-world application, enabling students to learn with diverse peers in society. Now in its third year, the school continues to strengthen community partnerships and remains committed to developing future leaders.