International Academic Conference on the Philosophies of the Founder Daisaku Ikeda and Chingiz Aitmatov Held in the Kyrgyz Republic; Professor Kanzaka of IRISE Presented Online

Dates: May 20–22, 2026

Venue: National Academy of Science of Kyrgyz Republic, J. Balasagyn Kyrgyz National University, and other locations

Organizers: National Academy of Science of Kyrgyz Republic, Kyrgyz-Uzbek International University
(KUU), Institute of Modern Information Technologies in Education (ISITO), Soka Gakkai International (SGI) and others

Theme: The Philosophies of Daisaku Ikeda and Chingiz Aitmatov―The Spiritual Foundation for Sustainable Development in the Kyrgyz Republic

From May 20 to 22, 2026, an international academic conference focusing on the philosophies of the founder Daisaku Ikeda and the renowned Kyrgyz literary figure Chinghiz Aitmatov was held primarily in Bishkek, the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. These conferences were made possible through the efforts of Professor Emil Kanimetov, who continues to research Ikeda’s philosophy in Kyrgyz Republic, and Mr. Hironobu Ito, a Soka University graduate who has taught at institutions such as Bishkek State University.

The conference was attended by numerous government officials from the Kyrgyz Republic, researchers from the National Academy of Science, and university professors from both Kyrgyz Republic and other countries, and lively discussions were held regarding the spiritual foundations of sustainable development in the 21st century. Prof. Kanzaka of IRISE participated online on  May 20 and May 21.

In his presentation titled “Daisaku Ikeda’s ‘Humanism’ and Soka University,” Professor Kanzaka referred to the collection of dialogues between Daisaku Ikeda and Chingiz Aitmatov titled “Ode to the Grand Spirit.” Defining the university as a place for creative character formation, Prof. Kanzaka critiqued “radicalism,” which regards theory as all-powerful and denies human potential, arguing that fostering creative individuals who apply theory using wisdom is the foundation for sustainable social change.

Researchers from various countries, including Russia, Germany, and Spain, gathered at this conference to delve deeply into the contemporary significance of the ideas of Ikeda and Aitmatov, transcending language barriers. This symposium served as a new starting point for further strengthening our bonds with the people of Kyrgyzstan and moving toward a future of peace and coexistence.

Prof. Kanzaka said, “I was fortunate to be able to attend a conference that carried on the dialogue started between the founder and Aitmatov. I hope to continue expanding the network of people around the world studying Ikeda’s philosophy, starting with Kyrgyzstan."