A combination of internet problems, fatigue and a busy schedule has kept us from writing. But today is the third and last day of the GSS Conference, so we will be more relaxed for the next few days. To catch up briefly, we had dinner Sunday night with Emanuelle, Nicholas, and Peter as well as Nicholas' new Japanese girlfriend, Akiko. Went to an Izakaya restaurant, Waraya, and had many varieties of grilled chicken, mushrooms etc. It was a nice reunion. We missed Giovanni and Emilie!
Monday was the start of the Conference. The GSS program is a large and complex interdisciplinary program that includes 9 graduate schools and 3 research institutes from the university, and offers extra opportunities to graduate students with a goal of developing international leaders and researchers (eg in public health, environment, climate, economy etc). The full name for the program is "Inter-Graduate School Program for Sustainable Development and Survivable Societies." It is funded for 7 or 8 years by the Japanese government to improve Japan's presence in the world scene. We gave one talk on "Global Mental Health" among many presentations by "experts" and by students. I think it went quite well. I was the only invited woman speaker.
The students are quite delightful and a highlight of the experience. Topics ranged from public health related subjects to technology, climate change, leadership, etc, etc. There was more information about "Sustainable Development Goals" than anyone could possibly assimilate.
Last evening there was a reception by the students in which they provided food and entertainment, including dancing, and all wore traditional clothing from their native counties. I include photos a few favorites. It has been delightful to talk with the students about their work and experiences.
Will write more but shouldn't be late for the morning meeting.
Sending much love.
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GSS students at the party   |
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