“Over the past few decades, semiconductors have transformed the world at an astonishing pace. As Hokkaido University, we must clearly define the kind of society we aim to create through semiconductors, as well as the type of talent we seek to nurture,” said Hokkaido University President Kiyohiro Houkin at the launch ceremony of the university’s new semiconductor initiative, held on June 2, 2026.

Built on the three pillars of “Create,” “Activate,” and “Integrate,” the new initiative outlines the university’s ambition to become a central hub for Hokkaido’s growing semiconductor industry. These three paths are: “creating” high-performance semiconductors (Create); using them to introduce new ideas to society (Activate); and “integrating” discoveries from education and research into communities, industry, and the natural environment (Integrate). As part of this effort, Hokkaido University has partnered with Rapidus, a Hokkaido-based company developing next-generation semiconductor manufacturing technologies.

The initiative promotes the integrated advancement of education, research, and social collaboration by positioning semiconductors as a key driving force for the future development of Hokkaido. At its core is the Institute for Frontiers in Education and Research on Semiconductors (IFERS) serving as the headquarters for the new initiative.

(Left) Hokkaido University President Kiyohiro Houkin unveiled the vision for the university’s new semiconductor initiative at a symposium organized by IFERS on June 2, 2026. (Right) Professors and industry experts discussed the path toward pioneering the future of the semiconductor sector during the launch symposium.

“Semiconductors are not only about manufacturing; how they are used is equally important,” said Koichiro Ishimori, Executive Director of IFERS, at the launch symposium. “We aim to connect people, the university, industry, local communities, and global society to build a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem.”

The new initiative sets a clear direction for research, personnel development, and societal collaboration in the semiconductor field. It aligns with the university’s broader HU VISION 2030 and seeks to realize a well-being-oriented society in which semiconductors play a vital role. Importantly, the new vision for semiconductors emphasizes values that extend far beyond efficiency and productivity to embrace a sense of human warmth and social responsibility.

By fostering innovation and collaboration, Hokkaido University’s new initiative aims to breathe life into semiconductor technologies and pave the way toward a more connected, sustainable future.

The English translation of Hokkaido University’s Semiconductor Vision is available HERE.

Written by Megha Kalra, Public Relations & Communications Division