Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies (GSICS), Kobe University
From July 1 to September 30, 2025, I conducted an internship at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Tokyo (ITPO Tokyo). During the internship, I was mainly engaged in (1) tasks related to TICAD 9, (2) support for stage events and exhibition activities at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan and (3) the preparation of various reports and assistance in organizing business information sessions. Through these experiences, I gained insights into how international organizations operate, as well as effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. This internship was highly valuable for my future career development.
UNIDO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes inclusive and sustainable industrial development and supports the economic growth of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. ITPO Tokyo was established with the aim of promoting foreign direct investment and technology transfer from Japan. Its major activities include: (i) inviting high-level officials and experts from government agencies to Japan to share information and hold individual consultations, (ii) organizing investment and technology transfer seminars for developing and emerging countries, (iii) introducing Japanese technologies to developing and emerging countries through exhibitions, (iv) conducting seminars, workshops, and study tours for visiting delegations and embassies in Tokyo, and (v) disseminating information through publications, press releases, and the official website.
(1) Support for TICAD 9-related Activities
My responsibilities for TICAD 9 included logistics coordination and preparation for thematic side events hosted by UNIDO, as well as partner events under TICAD. In logistics coordination, I assisted with updating staff schedules and prepared related documents for the Deputy Director General from UNIDO Headquarters in Vienna during her mission to Japan. For event preparation, I drafted newsletters and designed event flyers, and prepared invitation letters for African embassies in Japan, which enabled me to learn how official documents are written in international organizations. On the event days, I supported venue setup, registration, and guest reception, gaining hands-on experience in managing international conferences. During TICAD 9, I also had the opportunity to visit other organizations’ booths and events, which helped deepen my understanding of Africa’s development initiatives and Japan’s engagement in the region.
(2) Support for Stage Events and Exhibition at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai
ITPO Tokyo showcased the concept of “Natural, Smart & Affordable” through stage events and an exhibition featuring technologies registered under the Sustainable Technology Promotion Platform (STePP). These highlighted practical Japanese solutions that can be implemented in developing countries. Prior to the event, my main responsibilities included communication and coordination with speakers, preparing briefing materials, and updating the stage event scripts. During the Expo, I was stationed at the exhibition area, where I introduced the featured Japanese technologies, the role of UNIDO, and the activities of ITPO Tokyo to visitors. This experience allowed me to reaffirm the strengths of Japanese technologies and reflect on how they can contribute to solving social challenges in developing countries.
(3) Support for Report Writing and Business Information Sessions
In addition to the above, I drafted event reports for publication on the UNIDO website, contributed to the annual report, and conducted proofreading for brochures and other communication materials. Through these tasks, I learned about effective communication strategies and writing styles in both English and Japanese within an international organization context. I also supported the business seminar hosted by ITPO Tokyo, assisting with venue arrangements, reception, and distribution of materials. Although I had limited knowledge of the Caribbean region, this event provided an important opportunity to directly hear from representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA), JICA, and private companies. I deepened my understanding of the region’s current situation, development challenges, and the potential for Japanese technologies to be utilized.
This internship has been extremely meaningful in shaping my future career. Although my academic focus has been mainly on education, this experience broadened my perspective to consider how education links with people’s livelihoods, employment, and industrial development. I also had opportunities to connect with interns and staff from other international organizations, which was truly inspiring for my aspiration to work in the international cooperation field. The experiences, knowledge, and networks I gained will not only serve as a foundation for my future academic and professional pursuits but also motivate me to position my expertise within a broader development context.
Lastly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Ms. Fumio Adachi, Head of UNIDO ITPO Tokyo, Mr. Ferda Gelgen, Deputy Head, and Mr. Hideki Murakami, Deputy Head, as well as all the staff members at ITPO Tokyo for their generous support. My heartfelt appreciation also goes to Professor Keiichi Ogawa, who encouraged me to apply for this program. I am truly grateful to everyone who supported me during this journey.
Authored by Miyoko Watanabe (Master’s student)
