Women Empowerment Through Science: Young Female Researchers Visit Okayama University

Promoting Women's Empowerment in Research through International Collaboration

On November 21, 2025, a group of rising female researchers, part of the UNCTAD Young Female Scientist Programme in Japan, had the honor of visiting President Tomoyuki Nasuno at Okayama University. This program, established in partnership between Okayama University and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), aims to elevate young researchers from developing countries by providing them with invaluable research and training opportunities in Japan.

One of the visiting researchers, Loraine Kay D. Cabral from the Philippines, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to conduct research at Okayama University, especially focusing on her work in biobanks. Accompanied by Professor Mizuki Morita, who is her supervising faculty member in the Health System Integration Science Division, Kay engaged in a thoughtful exchange regarding her research, sharing insights about distinct challenges she faces while employing Japanese systems in her homeland. She reflected on the geographical differences, citing the frequent typhoons in the Philippines and the predominant use of paper records over electronic medical records, which poses unique obstacles that need addressing to implement Japanese methodologies effectively in Philippine contexts.

During her meeting with President Nasuno, Kay discussed her aspirations to contribute to the advancement of biobanks in the Philippines upon her return. President Nasuno reciprocated her enthusiasm with encouraging remarks, emphasizing support for her future endeavors. To foster further exchange and collaboration, a lunch meeting was also held with Professor Morita, providing a platform for open discussion and relationship building between them.

The day also featured cultural exploration, as Kay and her colleagues had the chance to visit historical sites such as Okayama Korakuen and Okayama Castle. They immersed themselves in Japanese culture, having engaging experiences like trying on kimonos and tasting traditional matcha tea, which allowed them to appreciate the beauty and richness of Japan beyond academia.

The significance of Okayama University’s collaboration with UNCTAD cannot be overstated. In January 2020, they established a comprehensive partnership to cultivate human resources through scientific and technological innovation related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative took a historic turn, as it marked the university as the first in the world to sign such an agreement with UNCTAD, highlighting the commitment of both organizations to empower young female researchers from developing nations. Since its inception, the program has catered to scholars from various regions, including a recent expansion to include Latin American countries.

Going forward, Okayama University is dedicated to enhancing its collaboration with UNCTAD and continues to emphasize its mission of promoting STI for SDGs. By championing education and research initiatives that foster diversity, Okayama University is taking a proactive role in addressing global challenges. Through such efforts, the university aspires to inspire and elevate aspiring researchers, embodying the essence of a pioneering institution focused on education and societal development.

As Okayama University marks another milestone in its commitment to international collaboration and empowerment of women in science, there remains great anticipation for future programs and the positive impact these initiatives will bring not only in Japan but across the globe. The university encourages ongoing partnerships and engagement, ensuring that they remain a central hub for innovative research and cultural exchange.

For more information about this initiative and upcoming programs, please visit the Okayama University Global Engagement Center or the official UNCTAD website.