Kyoto University Summer Program on Governance Innovation 2025

The Kyoto University Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of Law and Policy (KILAP) will host the Summer Program on Governance Innovation, exploring new governance models for a society undergoing rapid transformation driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), data, and other emerging technologies.

Key information

Program Period: August 7, 2025 – August 10, 2025
Location: Yasaka Shrine – Tokiwa-den & Tokiwa-shinden (Google Maps)
Language: English
Program capacity: 30
Fee: JPY 250,000 JPY (including tax)
Application: Please submit your application form here.

Program Description

Building on the success of its previous editions, the Kyoto University Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of Law and Policy (KILAP) is delighted to present the 2025 Summer Program on Governance Innovation. Scheduled to take place from August 7 to 10, 2025, this program will explore new governance models for a society undergoing rapid transformation driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), data, and other emerging technologies.

As AI and data-driven innovations are becoming integral to our lives, developing governance frameworks that uphold core values such as human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and sustainability has never been more critical. Current governance approaches, which are often slow and inflexible, must adapt to the complex, fast-paced, and interconnected nature of digital technologies. Agle and multi-stakeholder governance models are essential to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation are realized in a way that reinforces and advances fundamental rights and principles.

In this context, the 2025 Summer Program on Governance Innovation offers a unique platform to engage with these critical issues. The program’s agenda is designed to provide an in-depth exploration of themes such as regulatory innovation, corporate governance in the age of uncertainty, the intersection of law and technology, public-private partnerships, allocation of responsibility and liability within complex supply chains.

Participants will have the opportunity to connect with a distinguished lineup of speakers, including global leaders from academia, government, and industry. They will also engage in group discussions based on real-world case studies that foster collaborative problem-solving. These sessions will be followed by direct feedback from speakers, enabling participants to refine their understanding and develop actionable strategies tailored to their own professional contexts.

Set in the historic city of Kyoto, the program will be held at Yasaka Shrine, an iconic location that embodies the blending of tradition and innovation—offering a perfect setting for cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaborative learning.

tion and innovation—offering a perfect setting for cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaborative learning.

Speakers (More to Come)

Prof.Nate Persily, Stanford University, Founding Co-Director of the Stanford Cyber Policy Center
Prof.Rob Reich, Stanford University, Faculty Associate Director of the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI and Senior Advisor to the U.S. AI Safety Institute (AISI)
Dr.Aaron Maniam, University of Oxford, Fellow of Practice and Director, Digital Transformation Education of the Blavatnik School of Government
Prof.Hiroki Habuka, Kyoto University Graduate School of Law, KILAP, Research Professor
Prof.Tatsuhiko Inatani, Kyoto University Graduate School of Law, KILAP, Professor
Leading practitioners from both the private and public sectors will also be participating.

Please note that the speakers lineup is subject to updates.

Agenda Structure

The program will feature expert presentations and collaborative group activities aimed at fostering practical learning and idea exchange. The agenda is cross-jurisdictional, multi-stakeholder, and interdisciplinary, covering the latest developments in AI and data, with a focus on emerging trends and challenges across various fields and legal frameworks, including but not limited to the following topics:

Framing the Challenge: How Digital Technologies Have Transformed Our Society
Agile Governance: Japan’s approach to innovation and legal systems
Governance of AI and Data by Global Leading Companies
Digital Policies and Strategies in Different Jurisdictions
Human-Robot Interaction and Law
Digital Democracy: Enhancing Consensus Building Through AI
Global Cooperation in Rulemaking

Please note that the agenda is still in development and subject to updates.

Who should attend

The program is designed for a diverse group of individuals, including:

Private sector professionals with expertise or interests in governance, AI, and emerging technologies
Public officers from national governments or international organizations
Policymakers shaping the future of technology and regulation
Academics and researchers specializing in related fields like law, technology, and public policy

Especially recommended for

Mid-to-senior level professionals with 5+ years of practical experience in relevant fields, seeking to deepen their expertise and broaden their networks．

Location

Yasaka Shrine – Tokiwa-den & Tokiwa-shinden (Google Maps)

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrines, providing a unique atmosphere for deep discussions and cross-disciplinary exchange, fostering inspiration in a space rich with cultural heritage.

Certification

Participants of the Summer Program will receive a training certificate from Kyoto University, a prestigious institution renowned for its excellence in research and education, and one of the top universities in Japan and in the world.

Previous Editions

This Summer Program builds on the successful previous editions that took place in 2023 and 2024. The previous editions brought together participants from international organizations, national governments, tech companies , academic research institutes, consultancy companies and many others.

Check more details:

Fees

JPY 250,000

This fee includes the tuition, meals (two dinners and three lunches), and Please note that travel expenses and accommodations are NOT included and must be arranged independently by participants.

Contact

summerprogram_kilap*mail2.adm.kyoto-u.ac.jp (Please replace “*” to “@”)

Sign up for our email list to receive exclusive updates on speakers, program details, and key deadlines. Be the first to know about important announcements and ensure you don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to engage with global experts in AI, governance, and policy

Join our mailing list today: Link

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there a selection process for the program?
A: Yes, the selection process will be conducted on a rolling basis, so we encourage early applications.

Q: What level of English proficiency is required?
A: All lectures will be conducted in English, so participants should be comfortable with listening and participating in English discussions.

Q: Do I need prior knowledge of AI or digital governance to participate?
A: While prior knowledge of AI, public policy, law, governance, or computer science is helpful, it is not mandatory. The program is designed to accommodate participants with diverse professional backgrounds.

Q: How can I pay the program fee?
A: Payments are accepted via credit card (single payment only).

Q: Can I receive a receipt issued under my company’s name?
A: Yes. We will provide further instructions after completion of payment.

Q: Do I need a visa to attend?
A: Participants traveling from outside Japan may require a short-term visa, which needs to be handled by the participant. Please check with your local Japanese embassy or consulate for visa requirements. While we are unable to assist with your visa application process, we can provide an invitation letter for the program.

Q: Does the program cover travel or accommodation costs?
A: No, participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses.

Program Coordinators

Prof.Hiroki Habuka, Kyoto University Graduate School of Law, KILAP, Research Professor
Prof.Tatsuhiko Inatani, Kyoto University Graduate School of Law, KILAP, Professor