Over recent years, global competition in recruiting the best and the brightest researchers has intensified, thus the phenomenon of global brain circulation is enhancing. Seventeen research centers are tackling great challenges in order to establish “Highly visible research centers” ,which attract top-notch researchers from all over the world and further improve the quality of Science and Technology.

Given changes in the trajectory of Japan’s science and technology policy and based on discussion advanced among the members of the Program Committee and other stakeholders, in December 2020 the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) formulated new WPI missions. Titled “Values for the Future,” the new mission seeks to further elevate the WPI’s four existing missions while fostering excellent young researchers in coordination with higher education and ensuring the sustainability of the WPI centers after grant funding has ended.