Â鶹AV

Japanese

On November 23, 2024, the 3rd Â鶹AV (HU) and National Institute of Special Needs Education (NISE) Joint Seminar was held with the theme "New Synergies of Diversity, Inclusion, and Well-Being: Towards a Sustainable Future Promoting Mutual Support and Cohesion." The seminar took place at the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Hiroshima, with 124 participants attending in person and an additional 197 joining online, bringing the total number of participants to 321.

The seminar aimed to deepen understanding of well-being, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and social health. It focused on strategies to support teachers and essential workers through inclusion and inclusive education. By integrating insights from healthcare, education, and economics, the seminar presented practical approaches to enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities, encouraging participants to take a step toward a more inclusive and sustainable future.

At the beginning of the seminar, Dr. Yumiko Suzuki, director of The Institute for Diversity and Inclusion at HU, spoke about the importance of inclusiveness and collaboration. Additionally, Mr. Takanobu Kiyoshige, NISE executive director, delivered a message emphasizing that collaborative efforts are essential to enhancing the well-being of society as a whole.

The main presentations featured four experts offering multifaceted perspectives. Dr. Alberto Prati, assistant professor in the Department of Economics at University College London, presented "Measuring Well-being through Sample Surveys," introducing the concept of subjective well-being measurement. Dr. Jessica Doty, Associate Vice Chancellor for Health & Wellness at the University of Colorado Boulder, spoke on "Generation Z: The Path to Well-being and Equity in Higher Education," discussing equity and mental health in higher education, emphasizing the importance of improving equity in educational settings and supporting students' mental health. Dr. Takao Hinoi, professor at the Genetic Medical Center, Â鶹AV Hospital, presented "Cancer Treatment and Risk Assessment and Well-being Brought by Genomic Medicine," explaining the impact of genomic medicine on well-being and how genomic research contributes to health and well-being. Mr. Hirofumi Osaki, senior chief researcher at the West Japan Branch of NISE, delivered a presentation titled "Aiming for the Well-being of Children in Need of Medical Coordination in Schools," introducing strategies for special needs education and specific efforts to enhance well-being in this field.

During lunch, a special event featured a performance by Insheart and Angelfish, combining culture and therapeutic expression. Additionally, there was a lecture by Insheart on "Well-being from the Perspective of Medicine and Music," focusing on the healing power of music and garnered significant interest from many participants regarding the psychological effects of music.

During the afternoon session, a panel discussion was held under the moderation of Professor Norimune Kawai, director of the Well-being Promotion Office of HU's The Institute for Diversity & Inclusion. The discussion focused on approaches to well-being from an interdisciplinary perspective, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in building an inclusive and sustainable society.

At the end of the seminar, Professor Kawai emphasized the importance of continuing cross-disciplinary collaboration. He called on all participants to work together in creating an inclusive and supportive future.

On the day of the event, we were grateful to welcome many participants, allowing us to successfully conclude the seminar. We sincerely appreciate everyone who took part. We will continue to promote education and research on well-being, inclusion, and special needs education. We appreciate your continued support and understanding.