The rapid development of information and communication technology (ICT) has transformed our world and society over the last 50 years; it is bringing sweeping changes to education, research, and management of institutions of higher education and academic research, including universities, junior colleges, colleges of technology, and inter-university research institutes. It is now even possible to have a campus that is unbound by space and time in cyberspace, in addition to a physical campus with which we are all so familiar. Against this backdrop, the social raison d’être and responsibilities that such institutions have long assumed, such as “academic freedom,” “transmission of advanced knowledge and culture,” and “accumulation of information on advanced technology and knowledge” are under review. Meanwhile, how we should go about increasing the management efficiency of such institutions has posed a significant challenge amid the declining birthrate, intensifying international competition, and tight national finances. As stated in its articles of incorporation, the AXIES aims to “bring about advancement to education, research, and management at institutions of higher education and academic research by applying ICT, thereby contributing to education, academic research, culture, and industry in Japan.”

Origin of the Name “AXIES”

“AXIES” is short for the Academic eXchange for Information Environment and Strategy.