International Symposium at Tohoku University

On Saturday December 15th the international symposium titled “The Great East Japan Earthquake’s Lesson on International Cooperation” was held at the Multimedia Education and Research Complex on Kawauchi Campus.  Eight presenters from five different countries delivered lectures, and about 130 people took part in the symposium.  The opening address was made by President Susumu Satomi, followed by Ms. Emiko Okuyama, the Mayor of Sendai, conveying her congratulations to Tohoku University.
http://www.tohoku.ac.jp/english/2012/12/news20121226-01.html 

The first presenter was Dr. Nobuyoshi Hara, Executive Vice President of Tohoku University.  Dr. Hara discussed how various institutions and research teams from Tohoku University contributed to disaster reconstruction and regeneration in the affected areas.  

Next was Dr. Holger Finken of DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) in Tokyo.  Dr. Finken stressed the importance of academic mobility between Japanese and German universities, intensive and careful communication required in consideration of legal and societal conditions, and sustainable funding secured by both sides.

Professor Cheng-Hung Hang of National Cheng Kung University (国立成功大学) in Taiwan not only talked about the responses of the university after the earthquake on March 11^th, but also about concern over the future of nuclear power and alternative forms of energy.

Ms. Kumiko Tsukamoto is a senior education manager at the Australian Embassy in Japan.  She introduced the strong bonds in the field of education between both countries, and Australian governmental support for the areas affected by the earthquake.

Dr. Lalit Acharya, director of international relations of Riverside City, California, explained about his energetic activities so far as a liaison between his city and its many sister cities (Sendai is one of them), universities and high schools.  Riverside City is one of the strongest supporters of Sendai City.

Mr. William McMichael of Fukushima University reported on the situation in Fukushima then and afterward.  Many foreigners left Fukushima out of fear over radioactivity. Mr. McMichael did his best to ensure foreign students’ security and took part in community projects to support students as well as Fukushima itself.  He showed various photos of his vigorous activities.

Prof. Onaka of Iwate University and Prof. Suematsu of Tohoku University presented results of surveys conducted at each university.  From the results of each, we could see how students at both universities assessed the situation, what actions they took, their thoughts, and so on.

A panel discussion followed the presentations, and the audience asked many questions even after the symposium.  This was a good opportunity to face the tough reality of the disaster as well as to recognize the fact that countless people battled and overcame difficulties.

In the venue, a giant cloth, produced through group effort, was exhibited. It was a gift from Riverside City of California, USA, sent to Tohoku University just after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011.