Back Ground and Strategy

Located in Akita

Akita University is the successor to the National Akita Mining College, which was established in 1910, and has built up a wealth of experience, technology and talent in the field of resource sciences in Japan. As such, Akita University is regarded as a premier institution where a series of skills related to mining operations are taught, ranging from prospecting, exploitation, smelting, to environmental conservation.

Resource-related Diplomacy

As China, India and other emerging economies industrialize, global demand for rare metals and rare earth metals has rapidly expanded. In these circumstances, in order for Japan to retain a leading role in the global manufacturing sector, the securing of mineral resources has become one of the most urgent national agenda. From this standpoint, the establishment of friendly relations with mineral-rich Asian and African countries has been a key to the sustainable development of the Japanese economy.

Contributing to International Development

On the other hand, in many mineral-rich countries, the sites of past mining operations have often become serious health and environmental hazards for nearby local people. To prevent such disastrous incidents from recurring, it is imperative that more appropriate technologies and environmentally conscious operations be employed. In this regard human resource and skills development in these countries are widely expected.

Fostering Human Resources

With globalization progressing at unprecedented speed, both Japanese scientists and industrialists alike are expected to duly participate in and contribute to this process. In this context, universities, in their role as institutions as the highest level of education and research, have an undeniable responsibility to foster the youth of Japan, who will eventually stand on the international stage possessing global perspectives and knowledge.

Development Strategy of RIGRe

Activities to fulfill Organizational Mission of RIGRe

Human resource and skills development at resource-related educational and research institutions
(1) Enhancement of institutional skills both in education and research
(2) Human resource development
Fostering resource-related personnel in Japan
(1) Acceptance and education of resource-related personnel from other universities,and the public and private sectors
(2) Promotion of joint research with other universities, research institutions,municipalities, and private companies
Joint education and research with leading resource-related Institutions both at home and abroad
(1) Personnel exchanges with leading institutions, including universities, academic societies, and research institutions
(2) Promotion of joint research and symposiums with resource-related universities and other research institutions