T1 Esports Academy (T1A) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tokyo-based LunaTone Inc. to jointly develop an esports education initiative targeting the Japanese market. The program aims to cultivate future business leaders in the esports industry through a blend of academic and practical training.
The partnership brings together T1A’s expertise in player development and LunaTone’s track record in project-based education. Together, they plan to create a structured esports curriculum and roll out a series of educational programs for students, young professionals, and working adults. The initiative will also include internship pathways and promotional activities at both domestic and international events.
T1A, operated by esports giant T1 Entertainment & Sports, has trained over 1,700 students and produced multiple professional players through its academy system.
LunaTone, meanwhile, has worked with institutions like Temple University Japan, University of Tsukuba, and U.S.-based universities including the University of Michigan and the University of Tennessee. It also collaborates with regional governments such as Ibaraki Prefecture and Osaka City to deliver hands-on, industry-connected learning experiences.
Set to launch in phases starting in 2025, the program will be delivered through partnerships with Japanese universities, vocational schools, and international institutions. High-performing students will be eligible for internships with T1, LunaTone, and partner companies, offering a direct route into the esports world.
This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between esports and mainstream education in Japan, positioning esports not just as a competitive pursuit but as a viable career path in business and related sectors. By integrating T1’s global brand and training methodologies with LunaTone’s implementation capabilities, the initiative hopes to set a new benchmark for esports education in Asia.
