OVERVIEW

I. Aftermath of the 3/11 Tsunami II. Hypothesis III. Interviews and Research IV. Understanding the Challenges of Revitalizing Ofunato V. Solutions / Action Plan VI. Conclusion

I. Aftermath of the 3/11 Tsunami

Background - Geographical Context - 3/11 Tsunami Destruction of Ofunato Region - Closing of Kitasato University Campus - Economic Side Effects - Emigration and Displacement of the Local Population, Students, and Youth

Background Geographical Context

Ofunato is located on the Sanriku Coast, which is the coastal region of Japan’s largest island, , extending from the southern , through the and into the northern . Background 3/11 Tsunami Destruction of Ofunato Region

Background Closing of Kitasato University Sanriku Campus

Background Economic Side Effects

Background Emigration and Displacement of the Local Population, Students, and Youth

II. Hypothesis

- Enhancing and re-establishing the educational opportunities of Kitasato University’s Sanriku Campus will strengthen the local economy. Additionally, creating new jobs in the region will attract outside Japanese youth to the area and retain local residents. Together this will lead to the effective revitalization of the post-tsunami Ofunato region.

III. Interviews and Research

III. Interviews and Research

III. Interviews and Research

We conversed with, interviewed and surveyed both local and non-local residents Researched other professional case studies and articles

Challenges of Revitalizing Ofunato Opinion Poll

Challenges of Revitalizing Ofunato Opinion Poll

IV. Understanding the Challenges of Revitalizing Ofunato

Summary of Challenges: - Lack of Jobs/Employment - Lack of Infrastructure and Information to Support Immigration from Cities - Limited Amenities - Few Medical Facilities - “Localism” - Remote Location – Lack of Transportation - Cultural Differences Between Locals and Non- Locals - Limited Educational Opportunities - Negative Perception of Rural Life/Jobs

V. Solutions / Action Plan Re-establish and re-open the Kitasato University’s Sanriku Campus

 Identify local, regional and national stakeholders and foster communication between them  Generate funding through government subsidies, grants, private donors etc.  Rehabilitate the campus facilities to ensure that they are safe and operational  Facilitate the reconstruction of student housing

V. Solutions / Action Plan Enhance the educational opportunities of Kitasato University’s Sanriku Campus

• Create more marine related programs • Create Training school, non-degree and continuing education courses • Example: Night school for local residents • Internationalize the faculty and student body • Create departments in other industries • Example: Tourism, Forestry, Sustainability, Meteorology, etc. • Implement creative marketing strategies

V. Solutions / Action Plan Redevelopment Ofunato City

 Bolster local infrastructure  Enhance Transportation  Rebuild coastal rail line  Increase bus lines  More amenities  Cultural and entertainment events  Fully equipped Sewer  High-speed internet  Full Medical Services and Equipment  Nursing Service for elderly people  Mobile supermarket  Renewable energy sources

VI. Conclusions

 Sustainable development of Ofunato City will revitalize the current industries as well as attract new industries

 Re-establishing and enhancing Kitasato University Sanriku Campus will result in increased immigration to the Ofunato City area

 These factors will increase commercial, educational, cultural and recreational opportunities. This will result in more jobs.