On Saturday, September 27, 2025, our organization’s representative Toda and board member Itaya visited Kohinata Daimachi Elementary School in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, where they delivered a lecture and held an opinion exchange session as part of the “Moral Education Public Forum for the Community.” The event was held for parents of students from first through sixth grade, and despite being held on a weekend, many participants attended.
First, Toda gave a presentation using slides on the current state of “international understanding and international contribution,” drawing from his experience in international cooperation with over 150 countries. In the latter half, he spoke about how to think of future peace as one’s own concern and connect it to solutions, concluding with a powerful message: “Before asking ‘me or others,’ think ‘both me and others.’ If such a path exists, pursue it first.”
Next, Itaya, who is also a parent raising children, added a brief comment: “In today’s information-saturated and increasingly complex society, for children to understand the significance of international cooperation and coexistence, we as adults should not ‘teach’ them, but rather adopt an attitude of ‘thinking together and discovering alongside children as they are.’ I myself am still in the process of learning.”
During the opinion exchange following the lecture, we were left with strong impressions from mothers’ questions such as “How far should we go when discussing peace with children?” and “What can we do to help children become aware of peace and take action themselves?” as well as a father’s words: “I thought I understood the meaning of international contribution, but now I’m uncertain how I should convey it to my children.” The principal also posed the question, “What is truly important to convey to children about the significance of international cooperation and international contribution?” making it a moment for everyone in the venue to think deeply.
From the sincere gazes and every word spoken by the parents, the principal, and the vice principal, we could feel their deep love and sense of responsibility toward the children. Although it was a short 45-minute session, through this dialogue, we ourselves gained many insights and learned a great deal. We sincerely thank everyone at Kohinata Daimachi Elementary School, Bunkyo Ward, and all the parents who participated. (Written by: Board Member Itaya)
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Forum2050 operates under the concept of ‘Children of the World: Each Child’s Vision for the Future Shapes Humanity’s Destiny,’ collaborating with businesses, schools, educational institutions, and others. Together with children, we create opportunities for them to contemplate peace and development in the future human society, fostering partnerships.
