From the left : Michel BROUSSE and Daniel de la CUEVA

The University of Tsukuba, Japan, hosted International Science Week from 1 to 3 October 2026, featuring an international conference and symposium entitled “Jigoro Kano and Education: Its Legacy and Challenges for the 21st Century.”

The event brought together scholars and experts to reflect on the educational philosophy of Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo, and its continuing relevance to contemporary society.

Representing the International Pierre de Coubertin Committee (IPCC), Board member Daniel de la Cueva presented a paper entitled “Judo from the Perspective of Olympic Education: Values for Human Development.”

His presentation explored the philosophical and educational principles shared by Jigoro Kano and Pierre de Coubertin, highlighting their common vision of sport as an instrument of holistic human development. Drawing on the scholarly contributions of Deanna Binder, Roland Naul and Norbert Müller, the paper examined the application of Olympic education principles to the educational dimension of judo.

Although emerging from different cultural traditions, judo and Olympism share a profound commitment to education through sport. Both philosophies extend beyond physical performance and athletic achievement, promoting moral development, personal responsibility, mutual respect and the cultivation of values essential to individual and social well-being.

The presentation also examined how these educational philosophies have evolved in response to changing political, economic and social circumstances, while maintaining their relevance in addressing the challenges of the 21st century.

The conference held particular historical and institutional significance, as Jigoro Kano served as the first head of the institution that later became the University of Tsukuba. The event was supported by the International Judo Federation and the Kodokan Judo Institute.

On this occasion, Daniel de la Cueva introduced the mission and educational activities of the International Pierre de Coubertin Committee to the participants. As a gesture of recognition and appreciation, he presented Pierre de Coubertin Medals to Dr. Michel Brousse, representing the University of Tsukuba and serving as host of the event, and to Master Yoshihisa Doba, Director of Education at the Kodokan Judo Institute.

During both presentations, Daniel de la Cueva emphasised the enduring intellectual and educational connections between Jigoro Kano and Pierre de Coubertin, whose respective philosophies continue to inspire generations through sport and education.

The participation of the IPCC in this international gathering also opened promising perspectives for future cooperation. Daniel de la Cueva expressed his conviction that closer relations with the University of Tsukuba and the Kodokan Judo Institute could provide valuable opportunities for joint academic, educational and sporting initiatives.

This encounter represents a meaningful step towards strengthening international dialogue and cooperation among institutions that share a commitment to education through sport, the promotion of human values and the contemporary relevance of the educational legacies of Jigoro Kano and Pierre de Coubertin.