Out of the total world population of 6.2 billion, about 860 million people are illiterate. Out of 780 million school-aged children in the world today, over 150 million are not receiving primary education. Basic education, especially primary and secondary level schooling, is a basis for people to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for their survival. Knowledge in basic sanitation, in nutrition and vaccinations and particularly about diseases such as HIV/AIDS will enable them to reduce uncertainties and risks in daily life and to raise their standard of living. Education broadens people's employment opportunities. Moreover, education helps people to develop their communication skills and decision-making abilities and as a result enables them to make their voices heard and to participate in community life. This is how education links with 'human security.'

Since the Jomtien Conference, the Japanese government has come to recognize the increasing significance of education in human security issues. Responding to a great expectation from international society towards Japan as the largest donor country in world, continuous efforts have been made both at national and regional levels in the country to deal with the issue.

During the four-day seminar in Hokkaido, specialists from the United Nations, international agencies and universities will address this theme in a series of lectures. There will also be opportunities to discuss the issues with the specialists and other seminar participants. This will be a great chance to deepen the understanding of education and human development. What kinds of educational support is required in the world and what kind of role could Japan play in that context? How have the UN and other donor countries supported developing countries and what kind of progress has been made? What are the remaining issues for the future? Let's try to find the answers to these questions during the seminar!

We welcome applications from throughout Japan from those who are interested in issues of global concern or are pursuing international or local community service-based careers.

On the first day, the opening ceremony and keynote lectures will be open to the general public.