Eikei University (President: Munehiro Arinobu, Hiroshima City, Naka Ward) has commenced its Project-Based Learning Exercise IA classes for second-year students during the summer quarter. Over approximately two months, each team will tackle themes and real-world challenges provided by three clients. Initially, Maki Kawase, Head of Department and instructor for the second-year problem-solving exercise, explained the overview of the two-month curriculum. The problem-solving exercise will be conducted in four steps: "Proposing," "Fieldwork (Research)," "Co-Review (Co-creation)," and "Reporting." After the clients introduce their themes, each team will conduct on-site research and interviews to explore the problems and causes of the challenges. Finally, in the final presentation, they will present the identified core issues. June 23 (Tue) Client Theme Introduction, Questions, and Exchange of Opinions Following the introduction and explanation of each theme by the clients, there was a Q&A session. Client: SATAKE Corporation Theme This project explores how to foster innovation by creating a workplace environment where foreign employees can fully demonstrate their abilities through an inclusive mindset. It also examines the current challenges and structural barriers that hinder both the realization of such an environment and the creation of innovation. Inclusion refers to a state or mindset in which diverse individuals are accepted and able to fully utilize their abilities. Sub-theme To enable foreign employees to contribute to innovation, it is important to first understand existing challenges. Based on this understanding, we will explore the ideal workplace and identify the actions required to achieve it. Please examine the topic from the following three perspectives: ■ Perspective 1 What structural and organizational barriers may prevent small and medium-sized enterprises in regional areas from leveraging diversity to drive innovation? ■ Perspective 2 What are the key ch