2024/10/28
On Friday, September 27, 2024, Dr. Juan, a researcher at OUIK, conducted a lecture titled “Let’s Learn About Biocultural Diversity in Kanazawa” for fifty-five students from Saio Junior School, located in the Kikugawa area of Kanazawa City. This lecture programme, which began last year, aims to raise awareness about the importance of biocultural diversity by highlighting examples from Kanazawa, a city where culture and nature are deeply connected.
This year’s programme is part of the Participatory Action Research Project conducted by OUIK in collaboration with the Kikugawa area association. The objective is to encourage a green community among local residents, especially the younger generation.
During the lecture, Dr. Juan first explained the meanings and relationships between biodiversity and cultural diversity. To help students relate to the topic, he introduced examples from the Kikugawa area, including the water canals, gardens, and the lives of artisans, such as a Kaga dye artist and a lacquer craftsman who runs his atelier in the area. Through these examples, he explained how humans (culture) and nature coexist and are interconnected, highlighting the biocultural diversity unique to Kanazawa.
The students listened intently, took notes, and asked numerous questions. At the end of the class, they discussed their home gardens, with many students mentioning that their grandparents maintain a garden. Dr. Juan encouraged them to help their grandparents with gardening, fostering an appreciation for trees, soil, and the natural world.
Thanks to the support of the teachers, this year’s program includes two classes. The next session, focusing on urban nature, will take place outdoors in November and will include activities such as urban nature maintenance and a visit to the famous Kenrokuen Garden.
At OUIK, we believe it is important to spread awareness of urban nature’s value and to instil this understanding in the next generation from a young age. We are deeply grateful to the community, local residents, and school staff for this opportunity and their cooperation.
