University students in Japan engage in regional problem-solving and literary competitions

In Higashihiroshima, students participating in the “Higashihiroshima Challenge Ship Tomo 2026” program are conducting a survey to improve local information dissemination. Working in collaboration with Press Net, the initiative aims to understand how university students consume media, such as Instagram and X, to better connect them with local attractions and community events.

The program serves as a practical training ground where students partner with local companies to address management challenges while acquiring skills in generative AI, social media management, and design. Participants include students from Hiroshima University and Kinki University.

Separately, at Tokai University’s Shonan Campus, Professor Mei Masuda’s seminar held a qualifying round for the “National University Bibliobattle 2026.” The event, described as an intellectual book review battle, requires participants to present recommended books to an audience. Following the campus competition, student Shotaro Tsukada advanced to the Kanto E Block決戦大会 to compete for a spot in the national finals held in Kochi Prefecture.