Konosuke Matsushita (1894-1989), the visionary founder of the electronics giant now known as Panasonic Holdings Corp. and long revered in Japan as the “God of Management,” established the Matsushita Institute of Government and Management in his later years, investing his own personal fortune.

The legendary industrialist believed that developing capable leaders was essential to building an ideal society.

Forty‑four years ago, he told The Asahi Shimbun what he looked for in applicants to the institute: “Anyone who doesn’t have ‘un’ (luck) just won’t do—no good at all. And next up is ‘aikyo’ (warm, likable appeal), you know.”

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, a fifth‑cohort graduate of the leadership academy, set her sights........

© The Asahi Shimbun