Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the eighth meeting of the Council for the Implementation of Education Rebuilding at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussion took place on the future of university education and other aspects of education. 

The Prime Minister said in his opening address,

"Today, we will discuss the draft recommendations regarding the future of university education and other aspects of education.
As globalization progresses at an accelerating pace, countries around the world are making dynamic moves to tap into overseas growth. If Japan alone remains inward looking, there will be no possibility of growth.
Recently, I visited Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, where both the professors and students come from all over the world, and I heard firsthand the views of the students who are studying in a global environment.
I came away with a strong feeling that as part of the national strategy, efforts must be made to enhance the quality and quantity of universities which support economic revitalization, and expand universities which foster 'internationally competitive' talents. In particular, I felt that the top universities should aim to become not 'universities of Japan' but 'universities of the world.'
This requires decisive action to thoroughly pursue the internationalization of universities, the designation of globally competitive universities, and the provision of focused support. In particular, at eight national universities, over the next three years, the personnel salary system will be reformed and around 1,500 full-time posts will be offered to outstanding young, non-Japanese researchers. 
Furthermore, to allow 'all' Japanese youths with motivation and skills to pursue overseas studies, the public and private sectors will work together to create a new scheme to reduce the economic burden of students.
In addition to this, it is demanded that innovations are pioneered through industry-academia collaboration, that the needs for adult continuing education are met, and that reforms are made regarding the management of universities which will serve as the foundation for these efforts. 
I would like to ask for your cooperation today in compiling the recommendations, which the Cabinet will make concerted efforts to realize as pillars of the growth strategy."