Event Overview

Young people in both Africa and Japan are playing crucial roles as agents of social transformation. The 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) focuses on these youth-led initiatives, exploring the potential for future-oriented cooperation through two key perspectives: "University-driven Innovation" and "Creative Economy."

In Africa, a youth-centered society has formed where over 60% of the population is under 25 years old. While young people face challenges such as unemployment and mismatches between education and the labor market, they are boldly forging the future through practical research and development and startup launches. They are driving transformation through academic research and entrepreneurship in fields such as health, climate change, education, and digital inclusion.

Simultaneously, universities and research institutions in Japan are advancing initiatives to promote student entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary research, with young people taking on domestic challenges such as declining birthrates, aging populations, and regional revitalization through creativity and innovation.

Furthermore, Africa's creative industries have become globally recognized growth sectors, with young people creating new value in fields such as music (Afrobeats), film (Nollywood), fashion, and digital storytelling, significantly impacting global culture and economy. In Japan as well, new forms of expression through animation and digital media are emerging, with young people driving unique innovations through the fusion of culture and technology.

This session will introduce intellectual and creative initiatives by young people from Africa and Japan, while deepening discussions about the new economic and social values created through collaboration between both regions.

Event Details

Title:
[TICAD9 Thematic Event]: Creativity and Entrepreneurship

Youth Igniting a Growth Revolution

Date and Time: Wednesday, August 20, 2025, 13:30-16:00 (Japan Standard Time)

Format: Hybrid

• In-person venue: PACIFICO Yokohama Exhibition Hall D
• Online streaming: Zoom

Languages: Japanese, English, French (simultaneous interpretation service available)

Co-organizers: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), University of Tokyo, Japan Association of Corporate Executives (KEIZAI DOYUKAI)

Participation Fee: Free

Registration Links:

• In-person participation: https://forms.gle/ie4gyrhoDrpjmEZo8
• Online participation: 

https://undp.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JwjDuKpZRhO6IMNpIazrWw

Program
 

Contact Information

UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA), TICAD Partnership Specialist
Chika Kondoh
Email: chika.kondoh@undp.org