Details of the Initiative
Through a personal connection, I became involved with Miyakojima Island in Okinawa. I was introduced by an acquaintance to Shusaku Hanashiro, who has been working to repurpose the former Miyajima Elementary School, which was closed. The school is in the Shimajiri district, an area blessed with abundant nature and unique culture. However, population decline and aging has created serious challenges in maintaining community autonomy and sustainable livelihoods. Under these circumstances, Hanashiro has developed a vision to revitalize the school as a multipurpose community center for all ages, aiming to create a community where everyone can continue living in the places they have long been familiar with. This philosophy deeply resonated with me and led me to visit Shimajiri repeatedly over the past few years to support the development of the center and explore how I can contribute. This year, I took my students to Miyakojima as part of a laboratory project. Together, we cleaned the school building, did DIY work to create accommodation spaces, designed temporary counters and furniture to activate the common areas, and organized events. Although the project is still in its early stages, it may serve as a model for communities across the country that face similar challenges in autonomy and sustainability. Drawing on my expertise in architecture and community development, I hope, even in a small way, to contribute to society by sharing the knowledge and insights that will help shape the future.
