On May 9, California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) and the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles convened with Japanese industry and community representatives to announce the Japan Jobs Training Program, a new academic-industry partnership which promises to bolster Southern California’s workforce and provide hands-on learning opportunities for CSUDH students.
The new program will be co-hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles, Japan Business Association of Southern California, and the Los Angeles Urban League. The CSUDH College of Business Administration and Public Policy will work with Japanese companies to establish special internships and micro-internships for students, company site visits, guest lecture series, and curriculum development tailored to industry needs.
CSUDH President Thomas A. Parham said that the university “cannot do what we do” without strategic partnerships with businesses, as they help to prepare students for their post-graduation careers and provide unique practical learning experiences. He added, “we pride ourselves of not just being in the community, but of the community.”
Consul General Akira Muto also spoke, echoing Parham’s sentiments about the need for mutuality. He referenced the strong ties between the U.S. and Japan, noting that Japan is the largest source of foreign direct investment in California. As such, Japanese companies are not only committed to upskilling the state’s workforce, but also invested in uplifting communities.
“We hope by increasing opportunities for underserved communities in the region, that it will help communities to unite,” Muto said. “This program is our humble contribution to these efforts.”
