Event Overview
On October 27, 2025, the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) hosted the MIRAI Workshop on Health and Aging, a key initiative to strengthen collaboration between Swedish and Japanese researchers. The workshop aimed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and promote engagement with industry, particularly through direct interaction with health-tech startups and public health leaders.
Program and Participants
- Theme: Health and Aging
- Date: October 27, 2025
- Venue: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST)
- Participants: 14 researchers and approximately 37 guests (including 13 online attendees)
- Participating Universities:
- Sweden: Umeå University, Luleå University of Technology, Linnaeus University, Jönköping University, Örebro University
- Japan: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Hiroshima University, Kyushu University, Okinawa International University
Highlights
The program featured 12 presentations, including:
- Seven by MIRAI GCT Health and an Ageing Population members
- One by a MIRAI GCT Climate Adaptation member and her colleague
- Three by health-tech startups
- One by the Okinawa Centenarian Study/Okinawa International University on longevity in Okinawa and Hawaii
In addition to the presentations, participants visited a nursing home and day-care center in Okinawa, gaining valuable insights into practical aspects of elderly care. A dedicated GCT Health and an Ageing Population meeting was also held to review current progress and outline future plans.
Significance
Population aging is one of today’s most pressing global challenges. By connecting Swedish and Japanese researchers with industry and local communities, this workshop marked an important step toward developing innovative solutions for healthy aging. The event successfully combined academic expertise, entrepreneurial perspectives, and real-world practices to create a foundation for future collaboration.
