Diversity Awareness Week 2017: "What the University of Tsukuba can do for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics"

Autographed poster and commemorative photo

An event of Diversity Awareness Week 2017 was held on Tsukuba Campus from October 2 to 6. On the third day of the event, a panel discussion took place at Ishino Hiroba Plaza, under the theme of "What the University of Tsukuba can do for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics". It was organized by the Center for Diversity, Accessibility and Career Development (DAC Center), in cooperation with the Office for the Promotion of Olympic and Paralympic Activities and the Ph.D. Program in Empowerment Informatics, School of Integrative and Global Majors (SIGMA).

Professor Hiroo Iwata (Ph.D. Program in Empowerment Informatics, SIGMA); Mr. Toru Suzuki (graduate of the Master's Program in Health and Sport Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences / participated in five consecutive Paralympics / won bronze medal at the World Para Athletics Championships 2017); Ms. Monika Seryu (2nd-year student in the School of Health and Physical Education / 8th in Canoe, Rio 2016 Paralympics); and DAC Center Director Hiroya Igarashi served as panelists. As a facilitator, Associate Professor Kaori Yamaguchi (DAC Center / bronze medalist at the Seoul Olympics) asked many questions to the panelists.

The event gave the audience an opportunity to learn about various topics, including research on the machine that expands human functions; the experience of competing on the world stage; difference of perceptions between Japan and foreign countries towards persons with disabilities and sports; and things we need to know before volunteering. Since it was held during lunch time, students were also included in the audience, listening to the panelists' talks.

During the panel discussion

From left: Ms. Seryu and Mr. Suzuki