Okayama University Hosts 4th Boccia Tournament to Promote Diversity and Inclusion

Okayama University, located in Kurashiki, Japan, is taking significant steps this November to promote diversity and inclusion (D&I) on campus. The institution has designated the entire month as Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Days, aiming to foster understanding and respect among its members. A standout event during this initiative was the 4th Boccia Tournament, held on November 7.

Boccia is a sport that has been included in the Paralympics, offering an inclusive platform where individuals of all ages and abilities can participate. Each team rolls their colored balls toward a white ball, known as the jack, with the goal of getting as close as possible. This simple yet strategic game encourages teamwork and friendly competition, making it an ideal fit for the university's D&I objectives.

This year, a total of 54 participants in 18 teams signed up for the tournament. Among them was Yukari Mimura, a director in charge of planning and evaluation, who actively participated alongside faculty, staff, and students in the quest for victory. An introductory session was led by Associate Professor Atsushi Takaoka from the Graduate School of Education, who outlined the rules before the tournament began.

Participants were divided into four groups for preliminary league matches, which led to a thrilling knockout stage. The event culminated in an exciting final, where the administrative team, known as the "Marunage Girls☆彡," emerged as the champions. The student team, "Mottaken?", claimed the runner-up spot, while the Good Job Center team, "Yamitsu," secured third place.

The event brought the university community together, serving as a reminder of the diverse attributes and identities present at Okayama University. It emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and respect among all university members, highlighting the need for continued D&I initiatives. The university is committed to promoting these values and encourages the community's ongoing support of these efforts.

The Boccia Tournament not only provided an opportunity for competitive spirit but also strengthened ties within the university, showcasing the joy of collaboration. Participants gathered for a group photo to commemorate the event, showcasing their team spirit while wearing matching Okayama University sweatshirts.

As Okayama University continues to embark on this journey of inclusivity, it looks forward to further activities that contribute to building a welcoming environment for everyone. The university is proud to be a research institution at the forefront of these values, contributing to a cohesive community and advancing the global agenda of sustainability.

For more information about the Diversity Promotion Office and the university's commitment to D&I, visit the Okayama University Diversity Promotion Headquarters website.

The event is a part of Okayama University's ongoing commitment to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to strengthen its role as a core research university within the region.

Looking ahead, the university is eager to further engage with the community, continuing to promote D&I initiatives while reinforcing its reputation as a distinctive and impactful educational institution in Japan.