Kumamoto University Graduate School of Instructional Systems 20th Anniversary Project
“20 Years of Nurturing the Next Generation of Educational Leaders and Looking to the Future”
The Graduate School of Instructional Systems (GSIS) at Kumamoto University was established in 2006, initiating Japan’s first graduate-level education program to train e-learning professionals based on instructional design (ID). Over the past 20 years, GSIS has produced numerous skilled professionals who have contributed significantly to both the educational and industrial sectors domestically and internationally. As GSIS celebrates its 20th anniversary, it reflects on its achievements and looks forward to future development.
1. History of the Program
Background and Purpose
The GSIS was established with a focus on instructional design (ID) to improve the quality of e-learning in Japan. From its inception, it has introduced cutting-edge educational technology and methodologies, providing experimental and pioneering education.
Achievements
- Produced many outstanding professionals in Japan and abroad.
- Contributed to education and industry.
- Demonstrated leadership in the development of e-learning and educational technology.
2. 20th Anniversary Projects
Overview
On the 20th anniversary, commemorative events are planned to reflect the program’s history and aim for future growth.
Commemorative Events
- Special lectures, symposiums, and panel discussions.
- Publication of a commemorative booklet highlighting the program’s history, achievements, and future prospects.
- Enhancements to educational facilities to support the development of the next generation of educational leaders.
3. Request for Donations
Purpose of Donations
To carry out the 20th-anniversary projects, we seek support from alumni and related individuals. Donations will be used for hosting events, improving educational facilities, and fostering future educational leaders.
Usage of Donations
- Hosting commemorative events.
- Publishing a commemorative booklet.
- Improving educational facilities.
- Establishing a scholarship system.
How to Donate
Donations can be made online via the Kumamoto University Foundation website using a credit card or bank transfer. Please refer to the flyer (in Japanese) for more details.
4. 20th Anniversary Event Information
Scheduled Events
- Commemorative Symposium: Reflecting on the past 20 years and exploring the future of educational technology.
- Alumni Exchange Meeting: An event inviting alumni from Japan and abroad for networking.
Event Calendar
An overview of the 20th-anniversary events.
Please note that dates and locations are subject to updates and changes.
| Date | Event Name | Location |
| December 7, 2024 | GSiS20 Pre-Event Case Study Meeting | Nagoya |
| December 8, 2024 | GSiS20 Pre-Event e-Learning Seminar Series | Tokyo |
| April 2025 | Special Event for GSiS Entrance Ceremony | Tokyo |
| May 31, 2025 | 20th Anniversary Commemorative Symposium | Tokyo Conference Center, Shinagawa |
| August 30, 2025 | JSiSE National Conference Pre-Conference Session | Nagoya |
| September 27-28, 2025 | JSET Autumn National Conference | Nagoya |
| March 2026 | JSET Spring National Conference | TBD |
5. Messages from Representatives
- Professor Toshihiro Kita (Head of the Master’s Program):
“Reflecting on the 20 years since the establishment of GSIS, I feel a deep sense of emotion and joy. The field of education has been continuously transforming with the introduction of innovative technologies, and GSIS has played a key role in this transformation by promoting e-learning and online education both in Japan and abroad. Together with our students, we will continue to pursue new forms of learning and nurture the educational leaders of tomorrow. We appreciate your continued support and cooperation.” - Professor Masashi Toda (Head of the Doctoral Program):
“As GSIS celebrates its 20th anniversary, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported us. In the doctoral program, we continue to deepen our knowledge of ID and focus on research and practice that foster the next generation of educational leaders. We remain committed to returning our research outcomes to society and contributing to both the educational and industrial sectors.” - Honorary Professor Katsuaki Suzuki (Founding Head of GSIS):
“Looking back on the past 20 years, starting GSIS with the goal of training e-learning professionals based on ID in Japan was a significant challenge. However, thanks to the efforts and passion of our alumni, faculty, and students, we have made remarkable progress. I am confident that GSIS will continue to play a pioneering role in Japan’s education sector. I sincerely hope that the 20th anniversary will mark another leap forward for the program.”
6. Contact Information
Inquiries
Kumamoto University
Graduate School of Instructional Systems Office
2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
Email: 
Phone: +81-96-342-2895
7. 20th Anniversary Project Committee
- Committee Chair: Yoshiko Kawamura
- Faculty Representative: Yoshiko Goda
- Committee Members (in alphabetical order of first name):
- Ai Yamashita
- Akihiro Ono
- Eriko Tokunaga
- Hiroshi Hoshino
- Keiko Masunaga
- Kenichi Fukuno
- Noriaki Yamada
- Tae Kashima
- Alumni Association President: Yayoi Ward
