On March 18-19th, 2024, Kyoto University Research Administration Center (KURA) hosted an international seminar titled “Next-Generation Human Resource Development for Harnessing the Forces of Culture and Nature for Peace and Sustainability” in Kyoto, Japan, at the Saifuso Villa and the Rakuyu Kaikan, both of which are owned by Kyoto University and registered as an Important Cultural Property and a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, respectively. About thirty people participated in the event from both within and outside the University.

In today’s interconnected world, we find ourselves confronted by a multitude of unprecedented challenges such as climate changes, wars and conflicts, energy security, natural disasters, pandemics, and other demographic problems across borders. These crises have far-reaching consequences, inflicting untold suffering upon humanity, jeopardizing global stability, and imperilling the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystems, natural treasures, and biodiversity. The urgency of addressing these pressing issues has never been more pronounced among people from different sectors, given their profound impact on current and future generations.

In light of these challenges, it has become increasingly imperative to champion the causes of peace, mutual understanding, sustainable development, and environmental preservation. KURA and Pale Bleu Dot (PBD) organized this international seminar focusing on harmonizing the potent forces of culture and nature to cultivate shared values and aspirations, as well as to nurture the young talents of the next generation among individuals from diverse backgrounds.

In the face of a highly uncertain future, it is crucial for multidisciplinary experts to engage in continuous dialogues concerning the fundamental values of humanity and the challenges faced by contemporary society. Through such dialogues, diverse stakeholders can identify collective future goals that resonate with them. There are growing recognition that it is essential for multidisciplinary experts to form collaborative networks based on mutual understanding and respect, aimed at achieving common goals, and to cultivate next-generation human resources capable of creating effective solution for peaceful and sustainable society.

This seminar was planned and managed by KURA’s【間: AI DA】Team (SONOBE Taro URA, KANNO Chiyoko URA, AYUKAWA Kei URA, TOYODA Hiromi URA and MURAKADO Chie, an administrative staff).

Click HERE for the event information

<Presentation Documents>

• Professor Miki Sugimura, Department of Education, Sophia University/PBD Director,
  “Education for Culture of Peace, Mutual Understanding and Sustainability through the Revision of 1974 Recommendation”
• Assistant Professor Kosuke Shiraishi, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University
  “Microbial biotechnology towards sustainable agriculture and carbon neutrality”
• Mr Etienne Clement, Advisor to the Minister of Culture, Cambodia/Former Director of UNESCO Apia Office/PBD Councilor
  “Force of Culture to address global challenges”, Kyoto University
• Assistant Professor Tomoko Takahashi, Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS)
  “Politics through Environmental Protection: A Case Study on the ‘Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ)”
• Cavalierie Enzo Peroni, Founder and CEO of EP Group of Companies (Video Message)