On February 6 and 7, 2025, National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) held the Special Lecture on "Thinking the Future of Ukraine from the Perspective of Development and Peace Building of Japan" for 23 young Ukrainians.

This program aims to provide an opportunity for the participants to discover takeaways for Ukraine's recovery from Japan’s various post-war experiences, and to bridge the two countries in the future. On the first day, Dr. Andrea Pressello of GRIPS gave lectures on "Japan's Postwar Recovery: An Overview" and "Contributing to International Peace: Armed Conflicts and Japan’s Peace Role", and then Mr. Okamoto Masakatsu, President of Japan Academy for Municipal Personnel lectured on "Restoration from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake - Building strong towns and rebuilding livelihoods". On the second day, two lectures focusing on JICA's cooperation for Ukraine were given. Mr. Kamiishi Hiroto, Senior Assistant Director of JICA explained "Humanitarian Mine Action", and Dr. Hashimoto Keiichi, Senior Advisor of JICA on "Strengthening public broadcasting".

In the final session, a group discussion was facilitated by Dr. Andrea Pressello, where participants shared their thoughts on how the Japanese experiences could contribute to Ukraine's future. When asked what they would prioritize for Ukraine's recovery if they were National leaders, they offered various responses. These included appointing capable individuals to the right positions, allocating a budget for essential issues, supporting those on the front lines, caring for the injured and those who have lost family members, and urging Ukrainians around the world to work together. All participants seemed to share their strong sense of expectation and immense responsibility toward their country.