The General Incorporated Association Learning of Tomorrow (Chairperson: Nanako Ishido; hereinafter referred to as Learning of Tomorrow) held the first “Innovative Learning Awards” ceremony on November 3, 2025 (Monday, a national holiday).

This award emphasizes the realization of learner-centered design and recognizes the importance of creating “Learning of Tomorrow” environments that transcend the boundaries of traditional schools. Its objectives are to realize a society where people of all ages continue to learn throughout their lives and to create new learning environments that will lead the future of education.

We received 182 entries from 19 countries around the world, including educational institutions, companies, and local governments both in Japan and abroad. Following a rigorous review by the selection committee, the following winners were selected.

■Award Results

・Grand Prix

[Education Innovation Category]
“Inquiry-Based ‘Shibuya Future Studies’” (Shibuya Ward, Tokyo)

　An innovative educational practice in which children formulate their own questions and learn while engaging with society. The recipient was highly commended for promoting educational reforms that realize child-centered learning and for creating exemplary models that serve as benchmarks for public education.

・Runner-up

[Advanced Education
Division] “AI Educational Material ‘atama+’” (atama plus, Inc.)　

　The approach drew attention for its ability to bring out the intrinsic appeal of learning through “hybrid learning”—a collaborative effort between AI and humans—and to strongly support self-directed learning.

"Scratch" (Mitchel Resnick)

　This visionary contribution was recognized for presenting a new learning model that goes beyond the scope of programming education to foster creativity and collaboration.

[Education Innovation
Category]　　　“Minerva University”　

　The initiative was recognized for pioneering a new form of learning through a groundbreaking educational model that combines online education with hands-on learning in cities around the world.

[Learning Space Design Category]
“Nakajima Memorial Library” (International Liberal Arts University, a Public University Corporation)　　

　The university was recognized for creating an ideal environment—at the core of its educational experience—where students can deepen their thinking and cultivate their expertise.

"Utsuhono-no-Mori Gakuen Educational Corporation"

　These initiatives—which focus on creating learning environments that engage the five senses and foster inquiry-based learning while valuing connections to the local community, the world, and nature—have garnered attention for their ability to unlock the potential of each child and nurture rich critical thinking skills and sensitivity.

・Judges’ Special Award
: “Realizing an Ecosystem Based on Academic Research” (Matsuo and Iwasawa Laboratory, The University of Tokyo) [Advanced Education Category]

He was recognized for his achievements in building an outstanding innovation ecosystem rooted in academia by leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence research to foster connections with education, industry, and entrepreneurship.

■Awards Ceremony Overview

Date and Time: November 3, 2025 (Monday, a national holiday)

Venue: Tokyo Port City Takeshiba, Port Plaza

　　　*Held as part of “Change Tomorrow: 2025”

https://change-tomorrow.tokyo

Intended Audience: Judges, Award Recipients, and Other Applicants

■Judges

■Implementation Structure

"Innovative Learning Awards" Official Website
https://innovat