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Panel Discussion - Diversity in Science: How to promote Inclusion & Empowerment in Japan 19 October 2022, Tokyo, Japan

Innovation thrives on diversity. Which questions we ask in science and how we address them is heavily influenced by our personal and social background. Engaging people from different backgrounds – such as gender, nationality or age – is important to broaden the scope of questions and generate new insights. Japan faces great challenges when it comes to diversity: In the Gender Gap Report Japan ranks last among the G7, a scientific career has become unattractive for many young researchers, and during the pandemic the number of international students dropped to a minimum due to closed borders. However, as the government is carefully beginning to re-open borders and discusses new financial support for PhD students, times could be changing. What can universities do to promote inclusion and empowerment and to create an environment where diversity and innovation truly thrive? This question will be addressed in a panel discussion featuring a keynote speech by Prof. Dr. Kaori Hayashi (Executive Vice President at The University of Tokyo). The event takes place during the photo exhibition “Fascination of Science” at the German Culture Center /OAG Haus. It is organized by the DWIH Tokyo (German Centre for Research and Innovation Tokyo) and OAG (German East Asiatic Society). The discussion will be held in English with Japanese interpretation and streamed live on the DWIH Tokyo Youtube Channel. Admission is free of charge, registration is required.