The Japan Association for the Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (JAPOLAC) recently organized an online meeting between the Research Center for Production of Agriculture in Controlled Environment (CIPAC) and Chiba University to explore CIPAC’s advancements and discuss potential collaboration.

Established in Panama in 2021 as an Association of Public Interest, CIPAC promotes research, training, and production in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) through public-private partnerships. CIPAC collaborates with national research, educational, and innovation centers across Panama, Latin America, and the Caribbean to drive agricultural innovation. It also engages with international partners to expand CEA technologies, particularly in regions facing climate-related challenges, enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

The meeting included participation of Mr. David Proenza, a CIPAC Consultant, who provided an overview of the organization’s initiatives and emphasized its commitment to building global academic and research connections. Representing Chiba University, Dr. Michiko Takagaki, a professor and former Director of the Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, expressed appreciation for the insights into CIPAC’s progress, highlighting the value of collaborative research in advancing CEA technology.

CIPAC originated from academic collaborations between Chiba University and Panamanian universities, including the University of Panama and the Technological University of Panama, laying the groundwork for ongoing international cooperation in CEA.

Moderated by Dr. Ritter Díaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, the meeting underscored JAPOLAC’s role in fostering partnerships to promote CEA. JAPOLAC actively supports the adoption of innovative agricultural technologies in Latin America and the Caribbean, aiming to improve productivity, food security, and farmers’ livelihoods. Initiatives like these strengthen ties between Japan and Latin American and Caribbean countries, promoting sustainable solutions and encouraging agricultural resilience in response to climate change.

From September 21 to September 29, 2024, Dr. Ritter Diaz, the Representative Director of JAPOLAC, contributed as a guest lecturer to the International Career Seminar (ICS) at Utsunomiya University. The ICS program is dedicated to equipping students with essential global perspectives and practical knowledge necessary for thriving in international careers. With a strong focus on “Globalization” and “Glocalization,” the seminar underscores the significance of addressing global challenges within local contexts.

Dr. Diaz’s lecture, titled “Advising Foreign Exporters about the Japanese Market,” offered invaluable insights to students from Utsunomiya University, the University of Peradeniya (Sri Lanka), and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS, Malaysia). His presentation provided practical strategies and useful knowledge aimed at preparing students for successful careers in international business. This interactive session also facilitated understanding of the unique aspects of the Japanese market, enhancing students’ readiness for real-world applications.

A distinguishing feature of the ICS is the use of English as the medium of instruction, allowing students to actively participate in cross-cultural exchanges with international professors, lecturers, and peers. Under Dr. Diaz’s mentorship, students concluded the seminar with a hands-on project, presenting two products for potential introduction to the Japanese market. This experience provided them with valuable insights into the complexities and dynamics of international trade.

Dr. Diaz’s lecture was designed to guide students towards future roles in the international divisions of trading companies, government trade offices, and international trade organizations, as well as to prepare them for potential careers as independent consultants advising foreign companies on entering the Japanese market.

Through Dr. Diaz’s participation, JAPOLAC exemplifies its commitment to advancing practical education that empowers future professionals with the skills necessary to excel in a globalized world. This collaboration between JAPOLAC and Utsunomiya University underscores the importance of international education and fosters the development of globally-minded professionals poised to thrive in an interconnected world.

Dr. Ritter Diaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, and his wife, Mrs. Ayana Diaz Hatada, hosted a farewell dinner in honor of His Excellency Alexander Salas Araya, Ambassador of Costa Rica to Japan. The dinner celebrated his friendship and unwavering support for JAPOLAC’s initiatives.

Since JAPOLAC’s founding in 2020, Ambassador Salas has demonstrated steadfast commitment to the association’s mission of disseminating the activities of Latin American and Caribbean embassies in Japan, helping to promote the region’s visibility.

Ambassador Salas has consistently supported JAPOLAC’s cultural initiatives, underscoring his dedication to fostering meaningful connections. Additionally, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening ties between JAPOLAC and the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER), thereby facilitating the dissemination of Costa Rica’s business initiatives within the Japanese market.

The event counted on the distinguished presence of the Apostolic Nuncio to Japan, officials from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, and former Japanese ambassadors to Costa Rica and the Latin American and Caribbean region, among other esteemed guests.

The evening underscored JAPOLAC’s profound gratitude to Ambassador Salas for his invaluable contributions to strengthening the ties between Costa Rica, Japan, and the broader Latin American and Caribbean region.

At the invitation of the Embassy of El Salvador, Dr. Ritter Diaz, Director Representative of JAPOLAC, attended the preview of the SUPERCYCLES exhibition, showcasing the works of Berlin-based Salvadoran artist Fredy Solan. This exceptional exhibition, held from September 25 to September 27 at the Embassy of El Salvador, attracted political and cultural personalities as well as members of the diplomatic corps.

Fredy Solan, a celebrated Salvadoran artist, is known for his exploration of contemporary art through innovative forms of representation and abstraction. Solan utilizes a unique blend of print, spray, and hand brush techniques on canvas, delving into the concept of intense economic growth cycles and their impact on global commodity demand over the last 150 years.

The SUPERCYCLES exhibition offered guests an immersive experience, where art and economic converged, presenting a philosophical dialogue through thought-provoking works. In addition, attendees enjoyed a captivating photo exhibition showcasing El Salvador’s dynamic urban landscapes and breathtaking natural scenery, providing a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

 

On September 24, the closing ceremony for the seventh short online program, organized by Panama Technological University for Chiba University students, took place under the coordination of the Japan Association for the Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (JAPOLAC). JAPOLAC’s coordination has been instrumental in facilitating this meaningful academic exchange, highlighting its commitment to fostering cross-cultural educational partnerships.

During the ceremony, Dr. Ritter Diaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, extended heartfelt congratulations to both professors and students for their dedication and perseverance throughout the program. He commended the students for embracing the challenge of engaging in English and for their enthusiastic exploration of Panama’s rich history, iconic canal, logistics sector, and natural wonders. This program has offered students the opportunity to expand their perspectives far beyond Japan, fostering a profound cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

Dr. Diaz highlighted the expansion of academic collaboration between Panama Technological University and Chiba University beyond controlled environment agriculture to include the fields of semiconductors and medicine. These high-priority areas not only enhance the academic profiles of both institutions but also contribute to addressing global challenges through joint initiatives and innovative research.

He emphasized the rapidly evolving nature of education, particularly with the rise of digital platforms and the integration of artificial intelligence. These technological advancements have made international education and collaboration more accessible and cost-effective. The short online programs are a prime example of how digital education is transforming global learning, teaching, and cooperation, opening doors to new opportunities and ushering in an era where learning is more meaningful, practical, and inclusive.

Dr. Diaz concluded by expressing his deepest gratitude to Chiba University for its ongoing partnership with the Panama Technological University. He reaffirmed JAPOLAC’s commitment to supporting the internationalization of both institutions and to continuing the development of intercultural educational initiatives. After seven consecutive virtual programs, JAPOLAC’s coordination has been instrumental in facilitating these meaningful academic exchanges, underscoring the association’s dedication to fostering intercultural educational partnerships.