Nagano KOSEN After-School Science Club Launched!

About the "Nagano KOSEN After-School Science Club"

Nagano College of Technology (Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture; Principal: Nobuki Hayase; hereinafter "Nagano KOSEN") has launched a new "Nagano KOSEN After-School Science Club" this academic year, beginning activities on June 1, 2026 (Mon), targeting first- and second-year junior high school students from nearby schools, with the aim of nurturing the next generation of science and engineering talent.

In recent years, both domestically and internationally, society is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technological advancements, including decarbonization, the expansion of AI and space industries. In response to these changes, the importance of STEAM education and inquiry-based learning is increasing, and there is growing recognition of the need for early exposure to science at the community level.

At the same time, Nagano City is advancing the transition of extracurricular activities from public middle schools to community-based programs. This club was established to serve as a supportive platform for that transition, providing a space where middle school students interested in science and technology can continue learning. In its inaugural year, 35 enthusiastic students from the local area have joined as the first cohort.

Activities are held twice a week on weekday afternoons, led by Nagano KOSEN faculty members who utilize their specialized expertise as instructors. The program features diverse, advanced-level themes such as programming, drone operation experiences, robot construction, and space-related research, aiming to cultivate a genuine "scientific mindset" beyond mere hands-on experiences.

Students have shared positive feedback, saying, "It's fun to experience science activities we can't do at our regular schools," and "The supportive teaching made me want to learn even more deeply," indicating a growing interest in science.

As an educational institution in Nagano Prefecture and Nagano City, Nagano KOSEN considers it one of its missions to nurture the seeds of future engineers and researchers. Through the "Nagano KOSEN After-School Science Club," we aim to create a space where children can discover the excitement of science, develop a passion for self-directed learning, and build the capabilities to shape their future career paths.

Students assembling a robotic hand

Students operating drones

About Nagano College of Technology

Nagano College of Technology was established in April 1963 (Showa 38) with the mission of providing in-depth education in specialized theories and technologies and cultivating the professional skills necessary for careers. With over 10,000 alumni, the college has earned high recognition from industry and other sectors as a higher education institution offering integrated STEM education from an early stage, and has continued to grow. In recent years, solving complex problems often requires integrating multiple engineering disciplines, increasing the need for cross-disciplinary engineering education. To meet this demand, the college reorganized its five former departments into a single Department of Engineering in 2022 (Reiwa 4).

Exterior of Nagano College of Technology

[School Overview]

Official Name: National Institute of Technology, Nagano College

Address: 716 Tokuma, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture

Principal: Nobuki Hayase

Founded: 1963

URL: https://www.nagano-nct.ac.jp/

Activities: Technical college and higher education institution