Activities for a Sustainable Society
Continuing to Contribute to a Sustainable Society
The spirit of social contribution has been passed down since the founding of Kwansei Gakuin.
It reflects our mission as world citizens to address challenges on a planetary scale.
Through the practice of our school motto, “Mastery for Service,” we continue to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society—now and into the future.
Early Days of the Academy
Lambuth’s Passion and Devotion for the Good of Humanity
During the formative years of Kwansei Gakuin, founder W.R. Lambuth poured his heart and soul into serving others. Traveling across the globe, he dedicated himself to missionary work, medical care, and the promotion of education. The “world citizens” nurtured at Kwansei Gakuin University are those who, like Lambuth, possess a global perspective, deep compassion, and a strong commitment to social contribution—individuals who strive to create a better world.
A Record from 1891
Social Contribution Activities
since the Academy’s Founding
Under the guiding spirit of W.R. Lambuth, who devoted himself to social contribution as a world citizen, Kwansei Gakuin has upheld a strong tradition of service. One of the earliest documented efforts dates back to 1891, the year of the Academy’s founding, when students and faculty participated in relief activities following the Nōbi Earthquake. This spirit of service has been passed down through generations.
The School Motto of Kwansei Gakuin
“Mastery for Service”
Kwansei Gakuin’s school motto, Mastery for Service, was first proposed by Dr. C.J.L. Bates, the University’s Fourth President, shortly after he assumed the role of Dean of the newly established College in April 1912. The school motto embodies the spirit of Kwansei Gakuin: to cultivate oneself in order to serve our neighbors, society, and the world.
※Click below to listen to the commemorative lecture delivered in Japanese by Dr. Bates at the Kwansei Gakuin’s70th anniversary ceremony
The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake
A Sign of Hope amid Tragedy
In 1995, the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake struck southern Hyōgo Prefecture, leaving behind immense devastation. Kwansei Gakuin also suffered significant damage, marking one of the most tragic chapters in its history. Yet in the midst of this hardship, more than 2,500 students took part in volunteer efforts, primarily at local evacuation centers. Their actions became a powerful embodiment of the University’s founding spirit and a true sign of hope.
Establishment of the Support Office
A Volunteer Hub for Those Who Serve
Disaster-Stricken Communities with Compassion
In response to the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, students and faculty members came together to establish the Human Service Center (HSC), the predecessor of today’s Human Service Support Office. Since then, Kwansei Gakuin has developed a comprehensive system for volunteer coordination and institutional support, fostering long-term engagement with disaster-affected areas and promoting a spirit of compassion and solidarity.
Expansion of Support Networks
Toward a Sustainable and Inclusive Society
In recent years, Kwansei Gakuin University’s volunteer efforts have extended beyond disaster relief to include a wide range of initiatives in education, welfare, and other social fields. Collaboration with external organizations has also grown, strengthening the impact of these activities. Through its diverse and evolving support activities, the University continues to empower communities and contribute to the realization of a more sustainable and inclusive society.
Kwansei Gakuin University and the SDGs
Led by the Sustainability Promotion Headquarters, Kwansei Gakuin is engaged in promoting the SDGs across the entire institution.
Based on the Kwansei Gakuin University SDGs Declaration, a wide range of projects are underway.
Featured Content
SDGs-related courses: Introduction to SDGs Studies 1
In this course, students will acquire fundamental knowledge about all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the corresponding global challenges. They will learn how the international community is addressing these issues.
KG SDGs Campus Supporters
KG SDGs Campus Supporters is an official student organization recognized by the Sustainability Promotion Headquarters. Its members actively promote and practice the SDGs both on and off campus. They also serve as a bridge between related student groups, helping to energize and coordinate SDG-related activities.
Sustainable KG
Since its founding in 1889, Kwansei Gakuin has engaged in numerous sustainable initiatives. Here, we introduce some of our representative efforts.
Feature 01: Community and Social Contribution
Practicing “Mastery for Service” through diverse volunteer activities
W.R. Lambuth, the founder of Kwansei Gakuin, dedicated his life to social contribution as a world citizen. Since Kwansei Gakuin’s founding, his spirit of service has been passed down through generations. Today, students continue to lead a wide variety of community and social contribution activities, including volunteer activities.
- International volunteer activities in collaboration with UN agencies and NGOs
- Student-led social contribution initiatives
- Club activities focused on community engagement
Feature 02: Disaster Relief
Learning from past disasters to support ongoing recovery efforts
Following the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, the Human Service Support Office was established to coordinate volunteer efforts. We also pursue research in the humanities and social sciences to explore effective disaster recovery models.
- Compassionate support for disaster-affected areas
- Research hub for disaster recovery systems
Feature 03: Human Rights
Fostering world citizens who engage in dialogue with compassion
Human rights violations caused by discrimination are becoming increasingly complex in today’s globalized and digital society. Kwansei Gakuin University, committed to nurturing world citizens, offers diverse educational opportunities to build a better society through respect for human rights.
- Rainbow Week: Promoting respect for diverse identities and inclusive communities
- Human Rights Education: Empowering students to create a society that honors life and dignity
Feature 04: Environment
Tackling urgent environmental challenges through research and action
Energy issues are among the greatest challenges of the twenty-first century. Kwansei Gakuin University promotes cutting-edge research to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Kobe Sanda Campus: A hub for sustainable energy research
- Exploring innovations for a decarbonized society
Partnerships
As a university committed to nurturing global citizens, collaboration with diverse stakeholders is essential.
We share intellectual resources—including research and talent—with local governments, NPOs, NGOs, and other organizations. We also offer educational programs in partnership with industry and municipalities.
Additional collaborations include inter-university exchanges, high school-university partnerships, and alumni engagement, all contributing to the creation of new values.