#Japan #Tokyo #Consortium #Agricultural Welfare

Overview of the Conference

The Agricultural Welfare Cooperation Consortium, with its secretariat at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, will host its annual conference on August 4, 2023, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This initiative aims to foster collaborations between the agricultural sector and welfare organizations, enhancing the professional opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Purpose of Agricultural Welfare Cooperation

Agricultural welfare cooperation refers to the partnership between agriculture and welfare fields, allowing individuals with disabilities to engage in agricultural pursuits. This approach not only supports the economic growth of farming operations but also empowers individuals with disabilities, instilling confidence and fulfilling lives through increased societal participation. The initiative recognizes the need for a diverse approach to aid not just individuals with disabilities, but also aging populations, economically disadvantaged individuals, socially withdrawn people, and those recovering from past criminal activities. Expanding the boundaries of agricultural welfare cooperation beyond just agriculture to forestry and fisheries is pivotal in creating an inclusive framework.

In March 2020, the consortium was established to involve various stakeholders, including the government, local authorities, corporate entities, consumers, and academic experts, to promote agricultural welfare initiatives as a national movement. The consortium serves as a platform to share ideas and foster synergies that develop the agricultural and fishery sectors while contributing to a society that values communal living and cooperation.

Conference Agenda

The upcoming conference will cover a range of activities:
1. Opening Ceremonies
- Address by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
- Opening remarks from Yoshizumi Minagawa, President of the Consortium

2. Business Discussions
- Proposed amendments to the consortium's regulations, including establishing a new business division for agricultural welfare cooperation.
- Review of activities from the previous year and the future action plan for the current fiscal year.
- Draft plans for the business division's future activities.

3. Reports on Activities
- Updates and reports from various related activities.

4. Keynote Presentations
- Focus on models for expanding programs:
- Hiroshi City, Aomori Prefecture (Noufuku Award 2024 Excellence Award)
- Kokotomo Farm Co., Ltd. (Noufuku Award 2024 Runner-up)
- Kumamoto Welfare Association (Noufuku Award 2024 Runner-up)
- Dentsu Group, Consortium for Agricultural Welfare Cooperation

5. Expert Commentary
6. Information Sharing
7. Closing Remarks

Date and Venue

• - Date: August 4, 2023 (Monday)from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• - Location: Auditorium, 7th Floor, Main Building, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 1-2-1 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
• - YouTube Live URL: Watch Here

Media Participation

Members of the press are invited to attend the conference for initial camera coverage and to observe the proceedings. Interested parties must apply in advance for attendance through the provided application link. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM on August 1, 2023.
More information about the consortium and its activities can be accessed through the Ministry's official reports.

Regional Exchange Meetings

On the same day as the conference, regional exchange meetings focused on agricultural welfare cooperation will be held at various local agricultural offices. These meetings aim to facilitate dialogue among practitioners and administrative agencies, fostering a framework for collaboration at the regional level.

For inquiries regarding the regional agricultural welfare exchange meetings, please contact your respective local agricultural office for detailed agendas and information.

This conference represents a push towards creating a more inclusive agricultural sector, emphasizing the value of cooperation fostering community well-being and support for individuals with disabilities.