RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Japan is strengthening educational and cultural engagement with Indonesia through academic exchanges that introduce students to the country’s approach to human resource development and workplace culture.

Speaking at a visiting lecture at Jember University's Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, Japanese Consul General in Surabaya Takonai Susumu explained how discipline, innovation, and long-term employee development have contributed to Japan’s economic progress.

The lecture, titled Discipline, Innovation and Excellence: Insight from Japan’s Human Development Model, gave Indonesian students an opportunity to learn about Japan’s work culture, post-World War II economic transformation, and technological advancement.

“Japanese work culture is one of the factors that has made Japan advanced,” Takonai said during the session, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that Japanese companies have historically prioritized long-term employee development, creating a workforce that is highly skilled and adaptable. Takonai contrasted the approach with corporate models in the United States, which he said place different priorities on workforce management.

Takonai also highlighted Japan’s economic performance, saying the country recorded 4.2 percent economic growth in 2025 despite challenges caused by a declining productive-age population.

“The key lies in the uniqueness of Japan’s work culture, which is based on discipline, strong loyalty, and long-term human resource development,” he said.

Beyond the lecture, the Japanese Consulate General in Surabaya donated 174 English-language books to Jember University's Faculty of Social and Political Sciences. The books cover politics, economics, international relations, and culture, and will be added to the faculty library as academic references for students.

The faculty's Deputy Dean overseeing Student Affairs and Alumni, Budi Santoso, welcomed the initiative, saying international academic activities are important in broadening students’ global perspectives and preparing them for future workplace challenges.

He also expressed appreciation for the book donation and expressed hopes that the cooperation between Indonesia and Japan would continue to expand through educational partnerships. ***