Public Lecture: “Living Together in a Global Community: Stage Earth”

2012年7月18日更新

Dr. Norihiko Kuwayama

On July 18, 2012, the Global Collaboration Center hosted a public lecture titled “Living Together in a Global Community: Stage Earth” by guest speaker Dr. Norihiko Kuwayama, representative of the nonprofit organization Stage Earth.

In the 2010 academic year, the Center launched an initiative called “Developing an Intercollegiate Network for Peacebuilding in a Global Society” to promote research and action to support women and children in troubled regions of the world. Held in conjunction with this program, the lecture offered food for thought on life in the world’s war-torn and impoverished areas and how our international collaboration can lead to “Living Together in a Global Community.”

Dr. Norihiko Kuwayama is a practicing physician who has devoted much of his life to providing medical aid for those in need. In addition to taking part in overseas humanitarian projects in areas like Palestine, East Timor, and Sri Lanka, he operates his own clinic in Natori, Miyagi Prefecture. In the aftermath of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, in which Dr. Kuwayama himself suffered losses, the clinic remained open to provide medical services on a round-the-clock basis.

Scene from the “Stage Earth”

Dr. Kuwayama’s presentation was divided into sections. “Effects of Global Warming in Kenya” dealt with the impact of desertification on this African country and painted a portrait of the Maasai people, including their view of life and their efforts to preserve their customs and traditions. “Sri Lanka” depicted the lives of those affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the work of Japanese volunteers. In “East Timor,” Kuwayama relived his personal encounters with people victimized by violence during that nation’s struggle for independence. In “My Youth”- featuring a song Dr. Kuwayama wrote himself-he spoke of his own journey toward self-realization. He also devoted part of his talk to the Great East Japan Earthquake, including his personal experience and the ongoing struggle of residents to rebuild their communities and their lives. In this way the presentation transcended the topic of international cooperation, providing all of us with an opportunity to reassess our own lives from a new perspective.

The talk attracted some 150 participants from on and off campus, and post-event feedback was enthusiastic. “I was truly inspired.” “I wish more people could hear him.” “It made me realize how important international cooperation really is.” “His talk gave me courage to pursue my own dreams.” These were just a few of the comments we received.

We would like to extend our deepest thanks to Dr. Kuwayama for taking time out from his busy schedule, as well as to everyone who took part in the July 18 event.