The three-year curriculum of MIGM consists of a one-year general course in leadership training and a two-year course devoted to pursuing and preparing one's political or other career choice. The First Year Mastering Basic Principles through Independent Initiative Via basic course work, associates master the fundamental principles of policy making through their own individual effort. They are challenged to conceive their own worldview and governing philosophies. Training during this first year has four broad objectives: first, to obtain some idea of the spiritual forces connecting mankind with the greater universe; secondly, to form a vision of national management; thirdly, to gain hands-on experience with the genesis and resolution of political issues; finally, to acquire the basic skills and theoretical background necessary for policy-making. While the Institute has a curriculum outline, the associates do not learn passively in lectures but rather take an active role in learning through action. Basic Curriculum for the First Year Studying the Institute's Foundation and its Mission The associates study the life and work of Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of MIGM and creator of PHP philosophy in order to gain a more profound understanding of the conceptual origins of MIGM. Lectures on Fundamentals In these sessions, experts deliver lectures pertaining to classical themes (region, philosophy, Japanese studies, Confucianism, etc) Lectures on History The associates study modern Japanese history, Japanese political history, and world history so that they can cultivate their own views of history and envision a positive, vital role for Japan to play on the world stage. Studying Policy This includes lectures on major areas of Japanese policy making such as financial policy and foreigh policy particularly in the area of international relations and security. Annual Review At the end of the first year, associates' activities in a year will be reviewed with regard to the firmness and clarity of their porpose and vision as well as their action plans for the last two years at MIGM. President's Lecture President Seki gives a lecture on a personal or political theme. Associates are invited to discuss this theme with him in detail once he has finished. Sessions with MIGM Alumni Associates meet with alumni who are now politicians to discuss contemporary issues facing Japanese politicians, and work with alumni in the private sector on cooperative learning projects related to the alumni's field of endeavors. Cooperative Research In order to foster the ability of associates to develop vision for the long-term, all first-year associates are assigned a group project to work on. At the end of the year they present papers detaiing the results of their yearlong study. Japanese traditional culture Participating in the tea ceremony allows the associates to learn first-hand the essence of Japanese traditional hospitaliry. The associates also take Kendo(Japanese fencing) lessons to discipline their minds and bodies as well as Zen meditation for their spiritual enlightenment. Early Morning Practice Every weekday from 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. or so, the associates participate in physical exercise, cleaning up the Institute grounds and jogging down to the beach. 100km Walk All associates are required to participate in the annual 100km walk that goes from MIGM to Miura Peninsula and back within a 24 hour time limit. This activity is designed to hone physical skills and to test their physical limits and willpower, as well as to develop their spirit of cooperation. Global Literacy Skills In order for associates to have the global vision necessary for their collaborative projects and their individual studies, they are required to take courses in cross-cultural and international communication skills.