Meet, Learn, and Engage in the Community Recruiting Students for the 19th Term of the Challenge Community University

The objective of this university is to train community leaders who will play an active role in revitalizing local communities by using the knowledge and experience gained by generations approaching their senior years.
Participants will study for one year at the Shirokane Campus of Meiji Gakuin University. During the course of study, students may use many campus facilities, including the library.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements (1)–(7):
(1) A resident of Minato City (registered at the time of application)
(2) Age 60 or older as of March 31, 2026, or a community or child welfare commissioner
(3) Able to complete the full program independently (partial attendance not permitted)
(4) Willing to contribute to community welfare after completion
(5) Able to cover the program cost (including materials)
(6) Consent to provide personal information to Meiji Gakuin University, which is entrusted by Minato City to manage the program
(7) Able to comply with all university rules and regulations

*Those who have already completed the program cannot reapply.

Date & Time

Entrance Ceremony: April 11, 2026 (Sat)
Program Duration: One year
Class Days: Generally, Wednesdays or Saturdays (One to two times per week, two 100-minute sessions, approx. 40 days total)

Venue

Meiji Gakuin University Shirokane Campus (1-2-37 Shirokanedai)

Curriculum

Classes will be conducted mainly by professors from Meiji Gakuin University.

Social Participation (Welfare / Administration): Learn about local issues and administrative challenges in Minato City.
Health Promotion (Sports / Health): Focus on hands-on physical activities.
General Education (Economics / Law / Arts): Broad studies from everyday law to fine arts and music.

Capacity

Sixty participants (selection required)

Selection

Applicants will be screened on the basis of the application forms.
After selection, a health check will be conducted.

Fee

20,000 yen (per year)

Application Guide Distribution

From December 1, available at the Collaboration Project Section of each Regional City Office and Ikiiki Plaza centers. It can also be downloaded from the Minato City website.

Application

Submit by mail or in person between December 1 and January 19, 2026, (postmarked valid) and attach the application form and a statement (approx. 400 characters) of your aspirations for community activities after completion.
Applications can also be submitted online via the application form.
Mail address: Takanawa Regional Office, Collaboration Project Section, Community Policy Subsection 108-8581

After Completion

Graduates will be registered in the “Challenge Community Club (CC Club),” a self-managed alumni organization. For details, please visit the CC Club website.

Orientation Session

An information session will be held to explain the program and answer questions. Anyone interested in community revitalization or considering an application is welcome to attend.

Date & Time	Venue	Application
Saturday, December 13, 2:00–3:00 p.m.	Shibaura Civic Collaboration Space	Go directly to the venue on the day of the event
Saturday, January 10, 2026, 10:00–11:00 a.m.	Takanawa Civic Center
Saturday, January 10, 2026, 2:00–3:00 p.m.	Azabu Civic Collaboration Space
Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 10:00–11:00 a.m.	Lifelong Learning Center
Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 2:00–3:00 p.m.	Akasaka Civic Center