イデアス（IDEAS）
修了生の声
2023年度修了生｜論文コース
松下 昂永さん（三村小松法律事務所 弁護士）
論文タイトル：“Deepening the “Right to Information” Guarantee as Seen in the Philippine Local Government FOI System”
※優秀賞（Excellent Paper）受賞
これまで専門的に開発協力分野で専門的に活動してきた人ではなく、これから開発協力に携わりたい、または開発協力分野へのキャリアチェンジを考えている人におすすめしたいと思います。論文を書くという経験を含めてですが、自分の関心を掘り下げる非常に良い機会になります。海外の方たちとの交流も持てますし、自分のキャリアを変える一つのきっかけになると思います。授業の内容もよく練りこまれており、無理なく学べるような制度になっていますので、ぜひ日本の研修生ももっと増えてほしいと思っています。
（動画の内容を一部抜粋）
2024年度修了生｜講義コース
長谷川 未織さん（三村小松法律事務所 弁護士）
── 受講を決めた理由を教えて下さい。
法整備支援に興味を持ち弁護士を志しましたが、実際に弁護士となった後、動画配信サービスの法務部や法律事務所で主に知的財産分野の業務に携わってきました。改めて、弁護士として法整備支援や開発経済に関する知識を身につけ、今後の仕事につなげたいと考え、受講を決めました。
── 具体的な学びや成果、記憶に残る授業など、受講後の感想を教えて下さい。
特に印象に残っているのは、関税などの貿易政策が途上国の経済発展に与える影響についての授業です。これまで自分が扱ってこなかった分野について体系的に学べたことで、開発経済への理解が深まりました。
── 海外からの研修生とはどのような交流ができましたか。
これまで留学経験がなく、英語でのディスカッションにも不安がありましたが、テーマ設定からやりとりを重ね、実際に対面で議論できたことは大変貴重な経験でした。海外の行政官から直接聞くことができた各国の現状や課題について、深い学びを得ることもできました。
── イデアス研修プログラムをどのような人にお勧めしたいですか。
授業内容は非常に分かりやすく、開発協力分野での実務経験がない方でも安心して学べます。今後のキャリアで開発分野への関与を考えている方や、少しでも関心のある方にはぜひ受講をおすすめします。
2024年度修了生｜論文コース
藤井 智也（Tomoya Fujii）さん（Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu LLC）
論文タイトル：
“Leveraging Digital Technology for Fiscal Health in Africa”
In my previous role, I worked as an Investment Analyst at the UNCDF (United Nations Capital Development Fund) Zambia. During that time, a software provider approached us with a proposal to explore the use of cloud-based SaaS solutions to improve domestic tax revenue in Zambia. Having previously spent about five years in a startup company working on business development for SaaS products, I found the initiative personally compelling. However, due to the limited duration of my assignment, the discussion ended prematurely, and I was left with a sense of unfinished business. When I later came across the IDEAS program, I saw it as a valuable opportunity to further explore how technology can contribute to improving fiscal conditions in Africa, and that motivated me to enroll.
In the thesis track, each student was assigned an academic advisor who provides frequent guidance on the direction of the thesis. Thanks to this, I received valuable advice ranging from the basic principles of academic writing to more advanced input on how to refine the content of my thesis. Additionally, I had the opportunity to speak online with several local cloud service vendors, through which I learned about successful cases in countries like Uganda and Ghana. These discussions gave me a clearer picture of the practical potential for applying SaaS systems on the ground.
I had the opportunity to connect with research fellows from a wide variety of countries. There were occasions for group work as well as regular, informal communication. Although I was often busy with my primary job during the day, conversations with fellow IDEAS participants provided a refreshing and meaningful break.
In my current role, I primarily work on government-related projects, including Official Development Assistance (ODA). Many of these projects are digital in nature, which directly aligns with efforts to expand digital technologies in developing countries. When writing my thesis, I did not limit my focus to a single African country—instead, I began by conducting a systematic cross-country analysis of digital trends. This approach has also laid the foundation for providing macroeconomic advisory support when assisting companies with their market entry into Africa.
I believe this program is particularly well-suited for those aspiring to pursue careers in international cooperation or research roles related to global affairs. The faculty members are highly knowledgeable in their respective fields, making it easy to receive precise and insightful feedback during class discussions. For those seeking to deepen their expertise, this program offers an excellent environment for further learning.
2024年度修了生｜論文コース
Kamolwan Gaviratanathana さん（Ministry of Commerce, Thailand）
論文タイトル：“The Role of Industrial Policies in the Development of SMEs: A Case Study of Thailand’s Design Industry”
※優秀賞（Excellent Paper）受賞
Participating in the IDEAS Program was a profoundly enriching experience that transformed both my academic outlook and professional aspirations. Coming from a non-economics background, I initially approached the program with a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty. However, the well-structured curriculum and supportive environment empowered me to grasp complex economic and policy concepts with confidence. The coursework not only provided foundational knowledge in development economics but also encouraged fellows to think critically, speak thoughtfully, and engage in meaningful discussions.
One of the most memorable aspects of the program was the one-month training in Japan. Through field visits to JETRO Headquarter and government institutions, classroom learning was brought vividly to life. These hands-on experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for how policy is implemented in practice and how cultural context shapes development strategies. The IDEAS Secretariat and IDE-JETRO supervisors were also instrumental in making the program so impactful. Their exceptional support ensured that each fellow could thrive. They created an inclusive and collaborative learning environment that encouraged growth, dialogue, and international friendship.
Equally unforgettable was the bond I formed with fellow participants from across Asia, Africa, and Japan. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we connected through shared experiences, mutual respect, and a commitment to understanding global development challenges. These friendships and exchanges broadened my perspective and continue to inspire me both personally and professionally.
To future participants, especially those without an academic background in economics, I encourage you to approach the IDEAS Program with openness and determination. Engage actively, ask questions, and embrace every opportunity to learn and connect. This program is not only an academic experience, but also a transformative journey that will expand your worldview and empower your career path in meaningful ways.