On December 1, 2020, the Hokkaido Diversity Research Environment Promotion Network (KNIT) hosted an online symposium titled "Innovation Woven from Diversity."
We were pleased to welcome Ms. Yumiko Kajiwara, Member of the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation and Director of Fujitsu Limited, and Mr. Hiromichi Yoshitake, Director of the Tokyo Metropolitan Public University Corporation and Professor Emeritus of the University of Tsukuba, as our lecturers.
First, Ms. Yumiko Kajiwara gave a presentation titled "What is D&I for? Who is D&I for?", discussing the current state of women's participation in Japan and D&I from a corporate perspective. Her detailed explanation of Japan's situation compared to other countries, CSTI's policies, and Fujitsu's initiatives gave us a new perspective on the future of diversity and inclusion.
Next, Mr. Hiromichi Yoshitake gave a lecture entitled "Considering the Future of Universities and Society from a Diversity Perspective," discussing fundamental issues such as the structure and perceptions within university organizations, as well as work style reform. Based on data, his talk was highly insightful, covering everything from the current situation, initiatives, and challenges at universities to the effects that work style reform will bring to universities.
Although it was the first time the event was held online, approximately 90 people registered to participate, including representatives from the Hokkaido Diversity Research Environment Promotion Network's joint implementing organizations and cooperating organizations, as well as from organizations involved in diversity projects nationwide, faculty members, and private company employees. Together, we considered topics such as "Why is it necessary to promote diversity at universities (in industry-academia collaboration)?" and "What does this mean for organizations and researchers?", along with their social context, deepened our understanding, and shared perspectives.
According to a post-event survey of participants, the response to the question, "Is progress being made in creating an environment where diverse people can work comfortably?" was almost evenly split between "I think progress is being made" and "I don't think progress is being made." Furthermore, there appear to have been some changes in attitudes and systems before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Hokkaido Diversity Research Environment Promotion Network will continue its efforts to further enhance the research environment at universities and companies within Hokkaido.
Ms. Yumiko Kajiwara, Director, Fujitsu Limited
Mr. Hiromichi Yoshitake, Board Member of Tokyo Metropolitan Public University
