Status of Activities and Reasons for Their Continuation that Help Create and Retain Regional Experience Seekers

Survey Results among Graduates in Tottori Prefecture

Abstract

In recent years, various efforts have been made to promote the creation of “regional experience seekers” as a means to sustain and revitalize rural areas. This study investigated student groups engaged in rural activities and identified factors contributing to the continuation of these efforts, considering perspectives from the participants and supporting actors. It also clarified the factors that help foster and retain regional experience seekers through ongoing involvements in rural activities. Key factors that enable student activities to continue include support from intermediary organizations that connect students with the community, assistance from residents who welcome student activities, the development of relationships with other students and residents, and opportunities to learn about the activities and local characteristics. Moreover, the results suggest that promoting continuous activities and disseminating information from local stakeholders also helps retain regional experience seekers in rural areas.