Several decades have passed since the advent of the knowledge-based society, in which knowledge has a significant impact on social and economic development. Since then, society and the economy have become increasingly complex and uncertain, and the appropriate promotion of science, technology and innovation (STI), which integrates advanced knowledge, has emerged as an important factor in shaping the future of the world as well as that of Japan.
However, planning and implementing STI policies is by no means easy. Research and development activities in science and technology are highly specialized, and it takes a long and complex process for their outcomes to be implemented in society and translated into innovation. Furthermore, achieving a sustainable society requires decision-making that incorporates multiple perspectives and involves a wide range of stakeholders. In addressing such complexity, STI policy itself must be further advanced so that it is planned, implemented, and evaluated on the basis of objective evidence.
This program is an educational curriculum that awards Master's and Ph.D. degrees with a focus on STI policy. Through scientific approaches, the program aims to develop highly skilled professionals capable of planning, drafting, implementing, evaluating, and revising STI policies and strategies, as well as researchers with advanced research capabilities in STI policy.
In addition, since 2020, the program has expanded its course offerings to include evening and Saturday classes, enabling students to pursue their studies while continuing their professional careers. We have also introduced a short-term certification program, the "Short-Term STI Policy and Management Training Program," which allows participants to transfer earned credits to the GiST Master's or Ph.D. Program. These initiatives have broadened educational opportunities for a wider range of individuals.
The National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) is expanding its global network with the aim of training mid-career politicians, government officials, and professionals from industry to become policy and strategy experts and future leaders. Japanese students in this program also have opportunities to engage with international students of diverse professional backgrounds while studying in Japan.
I strongly hope that individuals with a keen interest in STI policy will come together in this program, and that the knowledge and insights gained here will contribute to their career development and be effectively applied in policy practice.
Koichi Sumikura
Director
Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Program
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)
