From "Gen-tō" to "Sei-shun" | Tomoyuki Kojima (Dean of the Faculty of Policy Management)
2004.04.01
In the ancient Chinese theory of the Five Phases, the four seasons are referred to as *Sei-shun* (vibrant spring), *Shu-ka* (vermilion summer), *Haku-shū* (white autumn), and *Gen-tō* (dark winter). SFC was founded in 1990 and is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. For those of us who have been on this campus since its founding, it strongly feels as though 15 years have already flown by. I can't help but feel that we have already completed one full cycle, from *Sei-shun* to *Gen-tō*. However, SFC may have already entered its second *Sei-shun* period. This is what we call "SFC version 2.0."
Under the banners of "reorganizing knowledge" and "leading society," SFC's faculty, staff, and students have worked as one to lead university reform in Japan, all while undergoing its own "transformation." This "transformation" means that research and education at SFC have shifted from the steady, individual research of one person to collaborative research that transcends disciplinary boundaries; from desktop research to social demonstration experiments of research outcomes; and from education detached from research to education through research. Among our faculty, some have participated at the core of actual policymaking as cabinet ministers, members of various government committees, and ministers. Among our staff, some have returned to SFC as faculty members. And from our student body, we have produced individuals who are active in various sectors of society and those who return to SFC as researchers.
Looking back, I myself have also changed significantly. My research on modern Chinese political history has expanded to East Asian studies centered on China. I have become involved not only in the creation of Japan's East Asia and ODA strategies but have also become deeply immersed not just in the investigation and research of Japan's environmental cooperation with China, but in its practical application as well.
At SFC, all faculty, staff, and students cannot help but "transform." It can be a bit tough, but whether or not one has this resolve determines if their SFC life will be fruitful. As long as that resolve exists, *Sei-shun* will reside with SFC. In this "Okashira Nikki" (Dean's Diary), I would be happy if I can convey these thoughts.
(Posted: 2004/04/01)