On Thursday, February 20, 2025, the “Strategic Design International Symposium: Multiform Design, Strategy and Entrepreneurship” was held at Kyushu University’s Ohashi Campus. This symposium was organized as a platform to explore the latest trends in strategic design and discuss its strategic significance expanding from design and business to entrepreneurship and social issues. Researchers, practitioners, and students from both within and outside the university gathered, engaging in lively discussions.
▪Venue: Kyushu University, Ohashi Campus
▪Organizer: Faculty of Design, Kyushu University
▪Speakers:
Francesco Zurlo (Dean, School of Design, Politecnico di Milano)
Yasuyuki Hirai (Head, Strategic Design Department, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University)
Hitoshi Takada (Director, Robert T. Huang Entrepreneurship Center, Kyushu University / Professor, Faculty of Economics, Kyushu University)
Gianluca Carella (School of Design, Politecnico di Milano)
Yasuyuki Hayama (Assistant Professor, Strategic Design Department, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University)
Melanie Sarantou (Professor, Strategic Design Department, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University)
▪Participants: Students from Kyushu University, industry professionals, and the general public
1. Welcome Speech
Professor Akira Omoto (Dean, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University) delivered a welcome speech, addressing the history of collaboration and friendship between Politecnico di Milano and Kyushu University, and expressing hopes for further development. He extended his greetings to Professor Francesco Zurlo, Dr. Gianluca Carella, and all attendees.
2. Lectures
Subsequent lectures covered topics such as “Strategic Design in Italy,” “Strategic Design at Kyushu University,” and “Design, Business, and Entrepreneurship Education.” The speakers discussed the characteristics and roles expected of design from a strategic perspective and within the context of entrepreneurship. Additionally, they explored the role and expectations of strategic design in driving social transformation.
3. Panel Discussion
The panel discussion that followed focused on themes such as “The Future of Strategic Design” and “The Role of Design in Addressing Social Issues.” The symposium concluded with an open discussion session where participants actively engaged with the speakers, fostering diverse perspectives centered on design.
“The presentations were highly inspiring, prompting reflection on the importance of design and the role of designers.”
“The symposium format was very engaging, and I believe it should be adopted in universities and faculties.”
“I gained new perspectives on design from different viewpoints.”
We look forward to your continued interest in our initiatives.
Event Overview
▪Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025▪Venue: Kyushu University, Ohashi Campus
▪Organizer: Faculty of Design, Kyushu University
▪Speakers:
Francesco Zurlo (Dean, School of Design, Politecnico di Milano)
Yasuyuki Hirai (Head, Strategic Design Department, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University)
Hitoshi Takada (Director, Robert T. Huang Entrepreneurship Center, Kyushu University / Professor, Faculty of Economics, Kyushu University)
Gianluca Carella (School of Design, Politecnico di Milano)
Yasuyuki Hayama (Assistant Professor, Strategic Design Department, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University)
Melanie Sarantou (Professor, Strategic Design Department, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University)
▪Participants: Students from Kyushu University, industry professionals, and the general public
Sessions
The symposium opened with a welcome speech by Professor Akira Omoto, Dean of the Faculty of Design, Kyushu University, followed by lectures and panel discussions on various themes.1. Welcome Speech
Professor Akira Omoto (Dean, Faculty of Design, Kyushu University) delivered a welcome speech, addressing the history of collaboration and friendship between Politecnico di Milano and Kyushu University, and expressing hopes for further development. He extended his greetings to Professor Francesco Zurlo, Dr. Gianluca Carella, and all attendees.
2. Lectures
Subsequent lectures covered topics such as “Strategic Design in Italy,” “Strategic Design at Kyushu University,” and “Design, Business, and Entrepreneurship Education.” The speakers discussed the characteristics and roles expected of design from a strategic perspective and within the context of entrepreneurship. Additionally, they explored the role and expectations of strategic design in driving social transformation.
3. Panel Discussion
The panel discussion that followed focused on themes such as “The Future of Strategic Design” and “The Role of Design in Addressing Social Issues.” The symposium concluded with an open discussion session where participants actively engaged with the speakers, fostering diverse perspectives centered on design.
Participant Feedback
Attendees shared the following impressions:“The presentations were highly inspiring, prompting reflection on the importance of design and the role of designers.”
“The symposium format was very engaging, and I believe it should be adopted in universities and faculties.”
“I gained new perspectives on design from different viewpoints.”
Conclusion
This symposium served as a valuable platform for exploring new possibilities in strategic design, leading to insightful discussions. Moving forward, Kyushu University will continue to promote the integration of design, business, entrepreneurship, and technology, strengthening industry-academia collaboration and expanding international networks.We look forward to your continued interest in our initiatives.
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