On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and the Embassy of the Plurinational State of Bolivia in Japan co-hosted a public event titled “The Wisdom of the Andes and the Technology of Japan: Supporting the Future of Food and the Environment” at the Pop-up Stage Inner East at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. The event showcased the research achievements of the SATREPS Bolivia Project and highlighted the richness of Bolivian agriculture and food culture.

The event began with opening remarks by Dr. Rolando Gregorio Oros Martínez of the PROINPA Foundation, followed by an introduction to the SATREPS program by Dr. NAGAMINE Tsukasa, Senior Program Director at the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). Dr. NAGATOSHI Yukari, Project Leader at JIRCAS, presented the significance and outcomes of quinoa research; Dr. TOKURA Yuji, Director of the Administrative Office at Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, introduced South American camelids; and Professor Giovanna Rocio Almanza Vega of the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés gave a lecture on the practical uses of quinoa.

A talk session featuring Bolivian international students followed, where they shared their experiences in research and daily life in the field, as well as the outcomes of youth exchange initiatives. The session also included an engaging Q&A with the audience.

In the latter half of the event, traditional Andean culture was brought to life through folklore music performances and traditional dances, creating a warm and immersive atmosphere among attendees. The event concluded with closing remarks from Project Leader Nagatoshi.

The venue was filled to capacity, with all bench seats occupied and many attendees standing around the pop-up Stage, reflecting the event’s great success. This event aligned closely with the Expo 2025 theme, “Designing Future Society for our Lives,” by promoting solutions to global challenges and fostering intercultural exchange. It also served as a valuable opportunity to promote international understanding of Japanese science and technology and the activities of JIRCAS.