On February 4, 2022, the Hokkaido Diversity Research Environment Promotion Network (KNIT: Hokkaido University, Muroran Institute of Technology, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Kitami Institute of Technology, Amino Up Co., Ltd., Nitto Denko Corporation) announced:How to survive the uncertain times ahead by leveraging diversity: Messages from stakeholdersWe held an online symposium on Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) titled "[Title of the symposium]".
Held online, the symposium attracted approximately 130 participants from universities, companies, and research institutions across Japan, not just Hokkaido, demonstrating the high level of interest in the symposium's theme: "Beyond promoting diversity, how can organizations and individuals leverage diversity as a weapon to survive?"
This symposium was held with the aim of learning and thinking together with the participants about the significance of diversity and inclusion and clues to breaking the status quo, together with key stakeholders in realizing a diversity research environment, focusing on the theme of "Who will find solutions to new challenges? Who will identify challenges that have not yet become apparent?"
Therefore, as stakeholders, we invited four speakers to give presentations: ① an entrepreneur whose business is focused on diversity and inclusion, ② a young talent representing millennials and Gen Z, ③ a company tackling global challenges, and ④ a researcher specializing in men's studies, who studies men's lifestyles and the difficulties they face.
Report
Tsukiko Tsukahara, Kaleidist Co., Ltd.
The speaker explained the essence of diversity and the importance of diversity management. Furthermore, using data, they discussed how, in order for Japanese companies and organizations to achieve results, it is crucial to address organizational structural challenges such as planning, developing work-life balance measures, ensuring accountability from management, and reflecting diversity in evaluations and standards.
Mr. Kakeru Tsubota, Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth College
Starting with what motivated him to pursue an MBA in the United States, he spoke from the perspective of an MBA student about (1) the value of an MBA, (2) MBA students' awareness of diversity and inclusion, and (3) expectations of companies and society, sharing anecdotes from his time there.
Masako Maruyama, Business Support & Solutions Division, JERA Co., Ltd.
The speaker focused on promoting D&I (Diversity and Inclusion) in companies, particularly in the male-dominated energy industry, where promoting women's participation is key. They also shared examples of successful corporate programs and initiatives, recognizing that diversity enhances corporate value.
Toshiyuki Tanaka, Faculty of Psychology and Social Sciences, Taisho University
We discussed questions and problems regarding the slogan, "From 'Men work, women stay home' to 'Men and women, both work and home'," and received the message that "In order to promote D&I and foster a sense of ownership, it is important to be aware of the impact that gender has on one's way of life."
Finally, as a concluding session, led by the keynote speaker Mr. Tsukahara, each speaker provided feedback by answering questions from the participants.
At this symposium, speakers shared their perspectives on promoting and the necessity of D&I, providing very valuable insights.
Thank you very much to all the speakers and viewers.
