Australia-Japan: Science and Technology Diplomacy and Public Policy
November 5, 2018 brought
the Australia Now! symposium to the University of Tokyo, Hongo campus. This
symposium was an opportunity for those in the fields of science and science
communication to discuss innovative ideas about collaboration and how
international partnerships are necessary to address global problems. Scientists
from around the world stressed the importance of international science
diplomacy as well as the merit of international partnerships.
Throughout the day there
were many interesting panel discussions focused on topics related to collaboration
and science diplomacy. The session after morning tea captured the attention of
the audience with discussions about climate change, geohazards, and
minisatellites. One of today’s challenges is assessing how different earth
systems respond to climate change. Since climate change and its related effects
is a global concern, international and cross discipline collaboration is a
necessary endeavor. A related challenge is communicating advances in scientific
understanding to governments and policy makers in an effective manner.
This panel also
discussed the involvement of students in international partnerships. Recently,
students from the Australian National University had the opportunity to travel
to Japan for a geohazards excursion with students from the University of Tokyo.
Students from both universities had a very positive reaction to the program and
gained an appreciation for collaboration. Introducing young scientists to other
scientists across borders, and realizing the benefits of such partnerships, is
an invaluable experience – something which is never forgotten.
Though there are still
many challenges related to international collaboration and science diplomacy,
forums like the Australia-Japan symposium held at the University of Tokyo this
week are essential for advancing ideas; possible science communication solutions;
and building cross-border, cross-discipline relationships.
Australia now logo: https://dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/public-diplomacy/Pages/focus-country-program.aspx
