【Activity Report】Multicultural Co-learning in the Philippines ~Collaboration with the PHLIGHT company~
Students had the opportunity to visit farmers in remote areas affected by natural disasters. These interactions provided firsthand insights into the realities and challenges of food supply chains in disaster-prone communities. They also visited various stakeholders working to address these challenges, including local government offices, small businesses, and non-profit organizations (NPOs). These experiences were then incorporated into the co-creation of student proposals.
Eight teams developed and presented proposals to local stakeholders. The proposals incorporated technologies and practices used in Japan that could potentially be adapted and implemented in the Philippine context. For example, one group proposed using a cable car system to transport cacao products, drawing inspiration from the cable car at Mt. Tsukuba. Other teams applied their expertise in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, engineering, and biotechnology, including the potential use of CRISPR-Cas9 to develop disaster-resilient crops.
The activity also strengthened the relationship with our existing partner, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, while establishing a new partnership with Bicol University. Both universities expressed strong interest in continuing multicultural co-learning activities that explore other social issues and challenges in the region. PHLIGHT, our program partner, is also actively seeking sponsors to support future multicultural co-learning activities and the implementation of selected student proposals.
Activity Report (prepared by PHLIGHT Inc.)