Asia University fosters a spirit of self-help and cooperation. These ideals were first proposed by the university's founder, Kozo Ota, who wrote the following in his Our Founding Principles--Cultivating the Spirit of Self-Help and Cooperation : The spirit of 'self-help,' the inspiration behind the establishment of this institution, encourages individuals to achieve personal autonomy, and to look to themselves as the greatest source of aid. Individuals must carve out their fate by virtue of their own efforts. . . . It is said that the flower of cooperation grows from the root of self-help. Since its establishment in 1941, Asia University has, as its mission, extended this spirit of self-help and cooperation into the international community. As stipulated in article one of the Asia University School Regulations, "The mission of this institution is to nurture minds capable of achieving an integrated Asia, with priority being placed on conducting research and taking constructive action relating to Asian culture and society." The university has remained true to this mission by providing the finest educational programs possible for its students so that upon graduation they may make a positive contribution to Japanese society, to the development of Asia and to the greater international community. The recent surge of growth in Asia is eloquent testimony to the foresight of the university's ideals.