Correspondence High School Students Visit 'TIB': Launching Project to Connect with Society with University Student Mentors [NIJIN High School]

NIJIN High School, a correspondence support school operated by NIJIN Co., Ltd. (Koto-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Tatsuro Hoshino), has launched a practical career education project. Students visit the Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB) office alongside university interns to build tangible connections with the real world.

Students, many of whom have experienced truancy or focused on online learning, will challenge themselves with new forms of learning that connect their interests to society, supported by university student mentors through interaction with startups, entrepreneurs, and various professionals.

## Background: The Need for Social Connection in Correspondence Education

As the number of students experiencing truancy rises, online-based learning has become increasingly common. However, online learning often faces challenges in providing opportunities to interact with working professionals, participate in community activities outside of school, and experience real-world social environments.

Based on the concept of "Turning isolation into youth," NIJIN High School utilizes the metaverse to connect students nationwide, allowing them to expand their learning based on their personal interests. This new initiative involves physically visiting TIB, a hub for startups and entrepreneurs, to create opportunities for meeting professionals outside of the school environment.

## Project Details: University Interns as 'Co-challengers'

Through this project, students will visit the TIB office with university interns to engage in events, network with entrepreneurs, manage PR and social media, participate in planning meetings, and support educational project operations. By having mentors close in age, the project emphasizes a gradual entry into social activities within a safe and supportive environment rather than abruptly forcing students into the workplace.

## Voices of the Interns: 'Co-challengers' Rather Than 'Supporters'

University interns participating in the project have shared their thoughts: "It feels more like we are challenging ourselves together rather than simply 'supporting' the students," "I hope to build a relationship where students feel comfortable taking their first step, given our similar ages," and "The TIB environment, which allows for natural connections with professionals, is incredibly valuable."

## Social Co-creation Examples

NIJIN has previously practiced social co-creation projects. Collaborating with Kao Corporation, they developed a home economics program called the "Children's Housework Naming Parent Program" for students struggling with attendance. Furthermore, in partnership with JR East Start Up Co., Ltd., they are developing a new model of learning that connects regions, enterprises, and education under the concept of the "Community-wide Learning Campus."

## Recruiting Students for Social Co-creation

NIJIN High School is currently recruiting students who wish to engage in project activities that connect them with society. Students who want to discover their passions, interact with worlds beyond school, or work with businesses are encouraged to join.

[Experience Session / Individual Consultation Registration]
https://www.jicoo.com/t/iZBKzNpIpL9t/e/W4frBgtQ

## School Overview
Name: NIJIN High School
Form: Online-centered correspondence high school support school
Eligibility: Prospective and current junior high school graduates nationwide
Official Website: https://highschool.nijin.co.jp/

## NIJIN Co., Ltd.
Known as a 'JAPAN EDUCATION COMPANY' that solves educational challenges through structural change. Founded in April 2022 by former teacher Tatsuro Hoshino, the company operates 13 structural models (businesses) to address issues like truancy, teacher shortages, and educational management.