Special Lecture by Ms. Tomoko Hasegawa of Japan Business Federation

Ms. Hasegawa from Japan Business Federation

After opening remarks by Tokyo Tech Vice President for Education Tetsuya Mizumoto, Ms. Hasegawa explained why Japanese companies need global-minded human resources and described the skills and attributes companies look for when hiring. She also explained how Japanese corporations are working hard to nurture global talents internally, and provided an overview of Keidanren's initiative to encourage women's active participation in the workforce.

Vice President Mizumoto delivering opening remarks

Approximately 80 students were present, including many from overseas. Ms. Hasegawa answered questions from the audience on topics ranging from the tradition of long working hours in Japan to the employment of international students by Japanese companies. According to a Keidanren survey, 55 percent of member companies have at some stage hired international students, but 3 of 4 companies state that these students make up less than 5 percent of their employees.