The movement to create safe environments for sexual minorities at universities is gaining traction across Japan, with alumni groups and faculty promoting initiatives to deepen understanding and provide support for the LGBT community.

"I want to make my alma mater a place where sexual minorities can study with confidence," Gon Matsunaka,43, said in a lecture hall at Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo in September.

Matsunaka, who is gay, is the president of Pride Bridge, a volunteer group of Hitotsubashi graduates. He also works at a nonprofit organization supporting sexual minorities.