On July 23, 2024 (Tue), 21 second-year Science Exploration students and one teacher from Shizuoka City High School visited JIRCAS as part of their "Tsukuba Science Tour."

First, the challenges of food and environmental problems in developing regions were introduced, and an overview of the research programs undertaken by JIRCAS and their contributions to the SDGs was explained. The students also shared examples of their SDGs initiatives and discussed food issues in developing regions.

Next, Dr. TSUTSUI Isao (Senior Researcher, Fisheries Division) gave a presentation titled "Behind the Shrimp We Eat," explaining the current situation and challenges of shrimp farming (intensive farming) in Southeast Asia. He introduced inexpensive, simple, and sustainable techniques using unused biological resources, such as a type of seaweed called juzumo and shellfish, aimed at economically disadvantaged small and medium-sized shrimp farms. He also explained the various creative solutions to overcome obstacles in advancing research and the importance of collaborating with researchers from different fields.

At the end of the visit, there was an exchange of opinions with the students. We hope that when the students become working members of society, they will look back on this day.

Dr. Tsutsui’s mini-lecture video titled "Taking on the Challenges with a Weed's Spirit! Research on Shrimp Farming in Southeast Asia" can be viewed on the JIRCAS YouTube channel.
 

Mini-lecture video "Taking on the Challenges with a Weed's Spirit! Research on Shrimp Farming in Southeast Asia" (Click to play)