Kyoto University Selected as a Target University for the Advanced Medical Human Resources Development Hub Formation Project

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) initiated a call for applications for the Advanced Medical Human Resources Development Hub Formation Project, aimed at establishing hubs for training excellent physicians with knowledge and skills in clinical education and research. Kyoto University applied for this project by formulating its own unique human resource development program and has now been successfully selected as a target university. For more details, please refer to the official MEXT website (https://www.mext.go.jp/a_menu/koutou/iryou/2022001_00015.htm).

At Kyoto University, the project titled “Kyoto NEXT (Near-peer Education and dX ‘hub project’ for clinical and research Training),” which focuses on AI utilization and Yanegawara-Education, aims to pursue both human resource development and efficiency simultaneously. By distinguishing between “tasks that can be automated by AI” and “tasks where human growth can be achieved,” the former will be effectively managed through AI, while the latter will be enhanced through Yanegawara-Education to achieve both individual skill development and efficient task distribution. This Yanegawara-Education integrates students and graduate students, ensuring continuous development from research to clinical education. Furthermore, leveraging Kyoto University’s broad human resources as a comprehensive university, its rich history of clinical research achievements, and the robust research support functions of the Institute for Advancement of Clinical and Translational Science (iACT), we aim to establish a hub that enables multidisciplinary and cross-field human resource development beyond the university framework. Through this project, we will effectively support current research personnel and foster future talents for sustainable growth.

In this project, the Center for Medical Education and Internationalization will play a crucial role in managing Yanegawara-Education and human resource development. We appreciate your continued support as we contribute to the cultivation of advanced medical professionals who will lead the next generation.

Term Explanation: Yanegawara-Education

The term “Yanegawara-Education” is derived from the structure of traditional Japanese tiled roofs. These roofs are constructed with tiles overlapping and supporting each other. The tiles at the top are supported by those below, while simultaneously supporting the tiles beneath them, creating a stable overall structure. This mutual support mechanism is reflected in the educational style, hence the name. Specifically, it involves senior members (professors and senior students) guiding intermediate members (assistant professors and lecturers), who in turn guide junior members (students), thereby gradually transmitting knowledge and skills. In this process, those who teach also continue to learn and grow, enhancing the educational effect. This mutual support across all levels is intended to improve the quality and sustainability of education.