On February 26, 2024, the theme country for the second session was Japan. Mr. Naomi Sawada of Research Instituttion of My Life provided the topic under the title " Challenges in Improving the Workplace Environment Surrounding Physiology in Japan."
Speaker, Mr. Naomi Sawada (CEO, Research Institute of My Life)
And Sanitary napkin case “Seripon” for public installation
Ms. Sawada continues her daily activities to contribute to improving the wellbeing of all people through issues related to women's menstruation. Looking at the work environment in Japan, which has turned away from women's menstruation, and the delays in social facilities and social institutions associated with it, she talked about the significance of setting up menstrual products in public spaces (regardless of menstrual poverty), making them accessible to all, and making the discussion open and not taboo. Two people participated from Tokyo Tatemono Corporation, a comprehensive real estate developer, which has supported this activity and has been conducting a demonstration experiment on the installation since 2019. Mr. Inomata shared his views, especially from a male perspective, while Ms. Danzuka contributed mainly as an interpreter.
A total of 20 people participated, including not only GRIPS students but also Japanese business people and students from other universities. During the discussion, GRIPS international students from Asia and Africa shared the cultural and social background surrounding menstruation in each country, particularly the difficulties associated with menstruation due to poverty, as well as difficulties in school attendance and commuting.?
Some GRIPS students are actually working on issues in their own countries, and it was an opportunity for them to be even more motivated.
After the talk, all the onsite participants remained in the room and continued to exchange opinions passionately. Moreover, they expressed their enthusiastic requests for continued discussion and exchange.
Homemade “Seripon”-shaped cookies brought by one of the attendees 
