Okayama University Presents at GISHW International Symposium on Workplace Well-being

Okayama University’s Presentation at GISHW International Symposium

On July 18, 2025, Okayama University participated in the GISHW (The Global Initiative for Safety, Health, and Well-being) international symposium held at the Intex Osaka during the Osaka-Kansai Expo. The symposium entitled “Gifts for the Future: Safety, Health, and Well-being for 8 Billion People” marked a significant event, emphasizing topics around well-being and safety, running from July 16 to 19.

Representing Okayama University were President Yoshitomo Nasu, Vice President Atsufumi Yokoi, Lecturer Kazuki Tokumasa from the Medical Development area at Okayama University Hospital, and Mikiko Nakamura, head of the Student Support Division. Additionally, student representatives, Miu Terashima from the sixth year of the Faculty of Medicine and Lin Thu Kha Htaik from the fourth year of the Global Discovery Program, also presented. They shared insights from various perspectives regarding what constitutes an “ideal workplace” within an academic setting.

During the presentation, the concept of the “Ideal Workplace VA (Basho)” put forth by the university was discussed. President Nasu and Vice President Yokoi highlighted the significance of creating an environment where everyone feels psychological safety in both learning and working contexts. The poignant message that “an ideal workplace is one where everyone can speak freely” resonated strongly with the audience.

Furthermore, Lecturer Tokumasa emphasized the necessity of organizational efforts to enhance individual engagement within the academic environment to foster a sense of purpose and well-being. Nakamura illustrated challenges faced in student support and provided practical examples while expressing a desire for the university to be a place where each individual can contribute their unique strengths.

The students shared their experiences regarding flexible and diverse learning opportunities and how an international environment impacts personal growth. Particularly, Lin Thu Kha Htaik passionately expressed a desire to connect Japanese culture learned in Okayama with people around the world, emphasizing the importance of applying their learning in future pursuits.

During the Q&A session, participants encouraged the young attendees, urging them to think about how to invigorate Okayama’s youth and community. This symposium served as a pivotal opportunity to think about the realization of Okayama University’s commitment to “co-creating a desirable future for the region and the planet.” It marked a substantial step towards further international collaboration and the expansion of educational and research endeavors.

Looking ahead, Okayama University remains dedicated to creating an educational and work environment where everyone can experience well-being through global perspectives in education and research. The initiatives of Okayama University, recognized as a distinctive research university at the core of the community, continue to garner attention.

The symposium is a testament to the university's unwavering commitment to innovation and its role in addressing global challenges through education.