Profile
I have assumed the position of President of the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO).
As Japan's core public research and development institution in the fields of agriculture and food, NARO has for many years contributed to society through research and technological development closely linked to agricultural and food on the ground. Taking on the responsibility of leading this organization, I feel a strong sense of commitment and responsibility.
Today, Japan's agriculture and food industries are facing unprecedented structural challenges, including a declining and aging agricultural workforce, the accelerating impacts of climate change, and increasing uncertainty in the international environment. At the same time, Japanese agricultural products and foods—known for their high quality and safety—are gaining recognition in overseas markets, while advances in biotechnology and digital technologies are creating new opportunities for industrial development and value creation. In this context, the role that NARO is expected to play is becoming increasingly important.
Under the Sixth Medium-Term Plan, with the slogan "Food, Agriculture, and Natural Capital at the Core of Security and Industrial Creation," NARO will work to enhance food security and Japan's food self-sufficiency capacity, promote the domestic and international application of developed technologies, expand exports of agricultural products and foods, foster the creation of new industries, and achieve both business viability and environmental conservation. In line with national policy priorities, NARO will steadily promote research, development, and social implementation. At the same time, by strengthening our function as a hub for collaboration among industry, academia, and government, and by making effective use of limited research resources, we will aim to produce high-impact research outcomes from basic research through to practical application.
Through my previous experience in research and university management, I have emphasized management based on a clear vision, together with the perspective of ensuring the social implementation and sustainability of research outcomes. Even the most outstanding research results can realize their true value only when they are implemented in society and utilized on a continuous basis. In other words, research generates value only when individual results are structured into usable forms and effectively translated so that practitioners, companies, and policymakers can take action. NARO will translate such structured knowledge and connect it with society to bring about innovation and change.
At the core of these efforts are people. We will continue to build an organization in which diverse human resources can make the most of their respective strengths, share a common vision, take on challenges with a sense of speed, and generate value collaboratively. By working together as one team, NARO's officers and staff will strive to open new pathways for the future of Japan's agriculture and food industries.
I sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and support for NARO.
